Warri NUJ Calls for Sanction of VIO Officials Over Alleged Extortion

…urges Oborevwori to rehabilitate Warri, Effurun, Udu Roads

The Congress of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ[), Warri Correspondents’ Chapel, has called on the relevant authorities to investigate and sanction officials of Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIOs) over their alleged extortion of motorists in Warri and Effurun metropolis.

The development stemmed from an alleged incident where VIO officials extorted a sick union member over an allegedly expired tyre.

Arising from its monthly meeting at the union’s secretariat, the chapel in a communique signed by Elo Edremoda, Success Okuchemiya and Matthew Omonigho, frowned at the extortion of a sick female member by VIO officials along Airport Road, Warri.

“The officials impounded her vehicle over an alleged expired tyre, demanded N80,000, and despite her health condition and pleas from NUJ leaders, insisted on collecting N10,000 before releasing her to seek medical care.

“Congress, while prioritizing the life of its member, paid the sum under protest and demands a refund of the N10,000 by today, Thursday, September 17, 2026. Congress calls on the relevant authorities to investigate and sanction the erring officials”.

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“Congress expressed grave concern over the continued activities of Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIOs) on public roads despite a court order restraining such operations.

“Congress condemned the alleged disregard for the court order and noted that the activities of VIO personnel on the roads could expose motorists and other road users to avoidable risks.

“Congress therefore called on the appropriate authorities and the leadership of the VIO to urgently address the situation and ensure that all operations are conducted in accordance with extant laws and valid court orders.

Meanwhile, the Congress commended the Delta State Government for its ongoing reconstruction and rehabilitation of court facilities across the state.

It specifically acknowledged the reconstruction works at the High Courts in Effurun and Udu, as well as the Customary Court before Udu Bridge, among other judicial infrastructure projects.

The congress noted that improved court facilities would provide a more conducive environment for judicial officers, lawyers, litigants and other stakeholders in the administration of justice.

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The chapel, in the communique, called on the Delta State Government to urgently rehabilitate major roads in Warri, Effurun and Udu Local Government Areas, particularly roads that have become difficult for motorists and commuters to access.

Congress specifically urged the government to give attention to Refinery Road and other major and adjoining roads, such as the Eburu Street road on Okumagba Avenue, within the Warri axis.

The congresses stressed the need for sustained investment in road infrastructure to ease traffic, improve mobility and support economic activities.

Congress urged residents of Delta State to complement government efforts by protecting and maintaining public infrastructure.

It called on residents to desist from dumping refuse in gutters and drainage channels, as well as connecting sewage systems to public drains, noting that such practices contribute to flooding, environmental degradation, and the premature deterioration of public infrastructure.

Congress further appealed to residents to take ownership of government projects in their communities and promptly report acts of vandalism, abuse or deliberate destruction of public facilities to the appropriate authorities.

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Congress reaffirmed its commitment to promoting good governance, accountability, public safety, and sustainable development through responsible journalism and constructive engagement with government and other stakeholders,” the communique reads.