The Enugu State Government says it has commenced strict enforcement of a ₦500,000 fine on motorists caught driving against traffic, commonly known as one-way driving.
The State Commissioner for Transport, Obi Ozor, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Enugu.
According to him, the enforcement is part of ongoing efforts to reduce the rising cases of road accidents and to instill discipline among road users in the state.
Ozor noted that the government has made significant investments in road infrastructure, including the construction of dual carriageways and installation of road medians, yet some motorists continue to violate traffic regulations.
He lamented that despite these provisions, some drivers still deliberately drive against traffic, thereby endangering their lives and those of other road users.
“Government has spent billions on road infrastructure, yet people still drive against traffic,” he said, adding that such behavior is unacceptable.
The commissioner identified areas such as Abakpa and the Penoks axis where, despite clearly marked lanes and medians, motorists still engage in one-way driving.
He said the enforcement policy would be applied across all roads in the state, noting that the government is particularly concerned about the increasing number of fatalities linked to such violations.
“Every day, we record accidents and recover bodies from roads that are in good condition. This is unacceptable,” he said.
Ozor further disclosed that beyond the ₦500,000 fine, offenders would also undergo psychiatric evaluation to determine whether substance abuse or other mental health conditions contributed to their actions. He added that the assessment could lead to rehabilitation recommendations before offenders would be allowed to recover their impounded vehicles after paying the fine.
He stressed that the policy is not revenue-driven but aimed at saving lives, urging motorists to exercise patience and obey traffic laws.
“One minute of patience will not kill you. Waiting at traffic lights or using the correct route can save lives,” he said.
The commissioner also said the government has begun public enlightenment campaigns in collaboration with transport unions and the media to ensure wider awareness of the policy.
He added that meetings have already been held with operators of taxis, tricycles, buses, tankers, and tippers to reinforce compliance.
Ozor warned that strict enforcement, including vehicle impoundment, will continue until full compliance is achieved across the state.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving road safety and reducing avoidable accidents in Enugu State. (NAN)
