LASG defends VIOs in viral truck clash

The Lagos State Ministry of Transportation has defended the actions of its Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIOs) following a viral social media video on Tuesday that captured a tense and aggressive confrontation between the officials and a truck driver in the Onipanu area.

The video showed uniformed VIOs attempting to forcibly remove the driver by climbing onto the cab, vigorously tugging at door handles, and striking the vehicle—a scene that quickly led to a traffic buildup and widespread commentary online.

Hours after the video ignited public debate, the Ministry of Transportation issued an official statement, signed by the Director of Public Affairs, Bolanle Ogunlola, clarifying the circumstances and justifying the officers’ pursuit.

The statement confirmed that the officers were apprehending a “reckless truck driver who endangered lives on our roads.”

According to the Ministry, the truck was initially intercepted at Ojota but the driver attempted to escape. The statement detailed the vehicle’s infractions: “The truck, found with a broken windscreen, no brake, no vehicle particulars, carrying an unsecured container… in an escape efforts by the driver damaged three vehicles along Maryland and posing a threat to other road users.”

The Ministry confirmed the truck has since been impounded and asserted that the driver “will face the full force of the law.”

The statement concluded by commending the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) officers “for their diligence and commitment to safety” and urged all road users to comply with traffic regulations.