The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has officially begun the enforcement of third-party vehicle insurance requirements across various states, as part of a nationwide initiative to ensure that all vehicle owners comply with the law.
The enforcement, which kicked off on Saturday in Lagos, follows directives from Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, aimed at safeguarding vehicle owners and road users.
In a statement released on Saturday, Benjamin Hundeyin, the police spokesperson in Lagos, emphasized the importance of ensuring that all vehicle owners possess at least valid third-party insurance. He further urged those without any form of insurance to obtain one immediately to avoid penalties.
The NPF has made it clear that failure to comply with the regulation will result in strict enforcement measures, including fines and penalties. “Vehicle owners in the state are required to have, at minimum, valid third-party insurance. Those without insurance are advised to obtain one immediately,” Hundeyin said.
The initiative, which started in Lagos, will extend to other states, including Bauchi, Kaduna, Akwa Ibom, and Kogi, where similar enforcement actions are already underway. Hundeyin stressed that officers involved in the operation are expected to demonstrate professionalism while carrying out their duties to ensure smooth enforcement.
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He also warned vehicle owners and operators across the country about the legal implications of non-compliance with this crucial regulation. “Failure to comply will result in strict enforcement actions, including fines, penalties, or both,” Hundeyin added.
The enforcement aligns with the stipulations of the Insurance Act of 2003, particularly Section 68, which mandates that every motor vehicle must be insured against third-party liabilities.
According to the law, no person shall operate a vehicle on the road unless they have liability insurance covering damage to third-party property. The minimum coverage for the third-party liability insurance is set at N1 million.
Section 68 of the Act further outlines penalties for non-compliance, with offenders liable to a fine of N250,000, one year in prison, or both, upon conviction.
“The insurance under this section shall be in addition to the liabilities required under the Motor Vehicle (Third Party) Insurance Act, 1950, and shall be regulated by the provisions of the Act,” the law states.
The primary objective of this enforcement is to protect vehicle owners, passengers, and other road users from the financial and physical impacts of accidents.
Third-party insurance serves as a safety net in the event of accidents or damage caused by a vehicle, ensuring that victims of road incidents are compensated for their losses.
The NPF’s latest move highlights the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen road safety regulations and protect the lives and property of Nigerians.
By ensuring compliance with vehicle insurance laws, the police aim to foster a safer driving environment and enhance the quality of insurance coverage in the country’s transport sector.