Kogi govt vows to punish truck drivers causing gridlock in Lokoja

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Kogi State Government has warned truck drivers against blocking roads, threatening severe penalties for defaulters.

A press statement signed by Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, this Thursday stated that the state government is aware of an incident at Nataco area of Lokoja, where a tanker driver blocked the highway after a disagreement with another driver.

The Commissioner’s statement highlighted that the reckless action caused an avoidable gridlock, leading to hardship for motorists and road users.

The statement read, “The Kogi State Government finds such behavior unacceptable, particularly with increased traffic expected during the Yuletide season. Blocking a major highway due to personal or commercial disputes is an act of sabotage against the free movement of people and goods, and it will no longer be tolerated.

“We hereby issue a stern warning that any truck driver or vehicle operator who deliberately obstructs the road will face severe penalties under the law. Security agencies and relevant transport authorities have been directed to immediately clear any obstruction and ensure that those responsible are apprehended and prosecuted.

“The Government remains committed to ensuring smooth, safe, and uninterrupted movement across the state, and we urge drivers and other road users to conduct themselves responsibly and resolve disputes without endangering public order.”