The Police Command in Delta State has constituted a special team to enforce the Third-Party Vehicle Insurance policy in the state.
The command’s spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed this while speaking with newsmen on Sunday in Warri.
Edafe said that the enforcement took effect from Feb. 1, in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
He said that the directive was in accordance with Section 68 of the Insurance Act and Sections 1, 2 and 3 of the Motor Vehicle (Third-Party Insurance) Act.
“The Motor Vehicle (Third-Party Insurance) Act mandates all vehicle owners to obtain a minimum of Third-Party Insurance before operating on Nigeria roads.
“As part of the routine enforcement operations, the police command in delta have observed with concern the decline in the number of insured vehicles in the state as reported by the Nigeria Insurance Associations.
“In response to the data and to ensure strict compliance, the command have established an enforcement team to tackle the challenge and to ensure adequate compensation of accident victims.
“Third-Party Motor Vehicle Insurance is a type of coverage that financially protects you if you are considered responsible for damages to another person’s vehicle,” he said.
Edafe quoted the Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Olufemi Abaniwonda, as saying that the essence of the enforcement was to ensure fairness and protection of responsible road users.
Abaniwonda advised motorists to verify their insurance policies to ensure they were covered and carry proof of valid Third-Party Insurance before embarking on driving.
“Driving without insurance is not only illegal but also irresponsible. Users of uninsured vehicles puts themselves and other road users at financial risk.
“Drivers should always carry proof of valid Third-Party Insurance when driving to avoid legal consequences, not limited to vehicle seizure but possible prosecution,” he said.