The Kogi State Government has warned against road obstruction by truck drivers and vows that severe penalties will be meted out to defaulters.

A press statement on Thursday signed by Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Commissioner for Information and Communications, stated that the attention of the State Government has been drawn to an incident at the Nataco area of Lokoja, where a tanker driver blocked the highway following a disagreement with another driver.

According to the Commissioner, the reckless action resulted in an avoidable gridlock, causing hardship to motorists and other road users.

The statement reads, “The Kogi State Government considers such behavior unacceptable, especially at a time when traffic is expected to increase during the Yuletide season. Blocking a major highway for 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.”