The Legal Aid Council of Nigeria (LACON), through its One Stop Claim Shop for Victims of Motor Accidents (OSCAR) Unit, has thrown its weight behind the enforcement of a third-party insurance policy by the Nigeria Police Force, which took effect on January 1, 2025.

As part of its support, the Council has launched a five-day sensitisation campaign to educate road users on the benefits of the policy.

Speaking during visits to various motor parks within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and its environs, the Director of the OSCAR Unit, Nurudeen Ishola, underscored the importance of third-party insurance in protecting road users.

He explained that for a yearly premium of N15,000, policyholders could access claims of up to N3 million in the event of an accident.

He further noted that the policy is recognised across West African countries, making it a crucial safety net for motorists.

Ishola, a lawyer, also outlined OSCAR’s role in assisting accident victims, particularly those affected by hit-and-run drivers, in securing compensation.

“The unit helps with obtaining police and mechanic reports, provides legal advice and representation, and clarifies insurance-related issues for victims,” he said.

To ensure proper compensation, he urged motorists to obtain genuine insurance policies from accredited companies, warning against fake documents issued by unauthorised agents.

He advised victims to report accidents to the police within 48 hours and notify OSCAR within one month to facilitate swift processing of claims, which, he assured, would be resolved within 90 days.

The sensitisation campaign attracted participation from key stakeholders, including representatives from the Federal Ministry of Health, the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), the Nigeria Police Force, OSCAR Unit staff, and members of the press.

Among the locations visited were Wuse Market, Area 1 and Area 3 Motor Parks, Jabi Motor Park, Zuba, Gwagwalada, Mpape, and Dutse Alhaji Market.

Road users expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting its potential to improve road safety and ensure fair compensation for accident victims.

Ishola reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to making insurance policies work for all road users, stressing that bureaucratic delays and fraudulent claims would no longer be tolerated.