No Group Authorized to Impound Vehicles, Collect Fines — Bonny LG Warns

The Bonny Local Government Administrator, Kingsley Banigo has issued a stern warning to the public, disowning a recent statement credited to the Finima Youth Congress (FYC), which claimed plans to impound vehicles and impose fines for illegal parking in the Finima area.

In a public notice released on Saturday, July 5, 2025, the Office of the Administrator made it clear that no group whether youth, women, or community-based is authorised to enforce parking regulations or collect fines within the local government area.

The administrator emphasised that while it had earlier issued a directive on May 19, 2025, banning roadside parking, indiscriminate parking, and the abandonment of vehicles along public roads, enforcement of that order lies solely with a committee duly constituted by the Administrator.

“The attention of the Administrator of Bonny Local Government Area has been drawn to a statement credited to the Finima Youth Congress (FYC) regarding plans to enforce actions against illegal parking within the Finima axis of the LGA. The Council vehemently disclaim such.” 

“For the avoidance of doubt, the public is reminded that a formal notice was issued by the government on May 19, 2025, declaring roadside parking, indiscriminate parking, and vehicle abandonment along public roads illegal. This measure was implemented to maintain free flow of traffic and ensure the safety of road users.”

“It is important to reiterate that only the committee duly constituted by the Administrator is authorised to enforce this directive on illegal parking and public nuisance. No other group or body holds such authority.”

The Administrator urged the Finima Youth Congress to immediately withdraw its statement and refrain from any actions capable of disturbing the peace of the area.

“Consequently, the statement issued by the Finima Youth Congress threatening to impound vehicles and impose fines is unlawful, void, and of no legal consequence.”

“The FYC is not empowered to carry out such enforcement, and its purported directive is hereby declared illegal.”

“The Council wishes to make it clear that no organisation—whether youth, women, or otherwise—is permitted to usurp the statutory responsibilities of the Local Government.

“The Finima Youth Congress is therefore advised to immediately withdraw its statement and refrain from any actions that may threaten the peace and order of the LGA.”

Residents were also reminded that while the ban on illegal parking remains in place, enforcement must follow due process under the law.

“The Council remains committed to ensuring free flow of traffic, safeguarding residents, and maintaining law and order across Bonny LGA”.

The statement urged citizens to go about their activities peacefully and in compliance with the Council’s directives.

“Meanwhile, vehicle owners are reminded that the ban on illegal parking and the obstruction of public roads remains in effect. All residents are urged to comply by removing vehicles parked illegally to avoid penalties.” “Residents are encouraged to continue with their lawful activities, assured of their safety and the Council’s commitment to maintaining peace and order across Bonny LGA.”