The Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) in Lagos State has advised the public to be vigilant and avoid boarding rickety vehicles in the state.

The Director of the Lagos State Vehicle Inspection Service, Akin-George Fashola, said this in a statement on Sunday.

The statement was signed by the Deputy Director, Public Affairs of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Bolanle Ogunlola.

According to Mr Fashola, the growing number of rickety vehicles operating on Lagos roads poses serious risks to the safety of commuters and other road users.

He noted that the warning followed the recent impounding of several dilapidated vehicles across different parts of the metropolis by VIS operatives.

Commenting on the development, Mr Fashola explained that the vehicles, including the one he personally apprehended, were in extremely poor condition.

He said the vehicles were poorly maintained, with outdated parts and lacked essential safety features, describing them as essentially ticking time bombs on Lagos roads.

He stated, “The rickety vehicles have been linked to numerous accidents in the state, often resulting in loss of lives, injuries, and property damage. Several critical issues common among the seized vehicles are unstable tires due to expiration, potential brake failure caused by makeshift repairs, and disjointed body compartments weakened by rust, all of which render them unfit for commercial use.”

He noted that many of the vehicles operate mostly at night, further increasing the risks to unsuspecting passengers.

The VIS director, therefore, urged the public to prioritise safety by avoiding any vehicle that appears to be in a deteriorated condition.

He assured the public that the impounded vehicles would not be released for further use.

He added that the VIS was working closely with relevant stakeholders, including road transport unions, to ensure Lagos roads remain safe for all users.

He also encouraged members of the public to report any sightings or experiences with rickety vehicles via the VIS complaint platforms at info@dvis.lg.gov.ng, or through the Ministry of Transportation hotlines: 09020004000 and 09020009000.

(NAN)