The Nigeria Police Force said the Feb. 1 commencement of enforcement of the mandatory third-party insurance for vehicle owners nationwide is sacrosanct.

The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said this in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

He said the initiative was to reinforce road safety measures and ensure that vehicle owners comply with the stipulated insurance requirements to protect themselves and others on the road.

Mr Adejobi warned vehicle owners and operators against non-compliance.

He said the enforcement actions would include fines and other penalties, as mandated by relevant extant laws.

“Effective Feb. 1, all vehicle owners nationwide are required to possess valid Third Party Insurance as they move about.

“Those without the insurance are advised to be insured quickly to avoid any sort of embarrassment,” he said.

He said the Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Kayode Egbetokun, had directed all commissioners of police nationwide to ensure due enforcement.

Mr Adejobi said police officers would be empowered to conduct checks and enforce penalties for non-compliance in line with relevant extant laws.

He said the Nigeria Police Force would remain dedicated to enhancing road safety and protecting the lives of all citizens through the enforcement of traffic laws and regulations.

The police spokesman called for cooperation from members of the public to ensure successful enforcement of the regulation.

The I-G had on Jan. 10 announced that the enforcement of third-party insurance for vehicle owners nationwide would begin on Feb. 1.

The I-G made the announcement when he received Olusegun Omosehin, the commissioner for insurance, National Insurance Commission.

(NAN)