Apparently to ensure that private and commercial drivers are in tune with the knowledge and importance of the third-party Insurance Policy, the Anambra Police Command organized a one day sensitisation program to that effect.
The program held in the state Police Command Headquarters, Awka has in attendance Heads of relevant agencies including Federal Road Safety Corps, State Motor Licencing Office, Vehicle Inspection Office, Anambra Road Transport Management Agency,. amongst others.
In his remarks, the outgoing state Commissioner of Police, Mr Nnaghe Obono Itam said the program was borne out of the desire to ensure proper understanding of the third party insurance policy by drivers.
He informed that there would be a one week sensitisation period tagged Operation Velvet which will be followed by full scale enforcement that would involve mobile courts.
While emphasizing that Third-Party Insurance policy is compulsory for all vehicles on Nigerian roads, the commissioner warned police officers in the state against using the enforcement as an avenue for extortion.
According to the Commissioner, premium rates for third-party insurance is N20,000 for commercial vehicles, N15,000 for private vehicles, and N5,000 for tricycles.
He explained that Comprehensive Motor and corporate insurances on the other hand, are optional but recommended warning that defaulters would face penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Also speaking, the Deputy Corps Commander, FRSC, Anambra state, Gloria Ezeugwu described the police enforcement as a welcome development as it aims to ensure compliance with Section 68 of the Insurance Act 2003.
According to her, the third-party motor insurance policy provides financial compensation of up to N1 million for damages, injuries, or loss of life in the event of accidents.
She explained that it can be procured from licensed insurance entities authorized by the National Insurance Commission, which can be verified online.
Representatives from other agencies and stakeholders took turns to share knowledge and explain the importance of the policy and enjoined drivers to embrace the policy and avoid being caught on the left hand side of the law.
