NTSA suspends Super Metro operating license
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has suspended the operator license of popular PSV firm, Super Metro Limited, a move aimed at ensuring the public service vehicle company meets road safety requirements.
The suspension, today, March 20, 2025, will remain in place until the company fully complies with the Public Service Vehicles Regulations, 2014, and other required conditions.
In a statement issued on Thursday, NTSA explained that the decision was necessary to ensure the company adheres to safety measures meant to protect both passengers and other road users.
“This is to notify the Public that the Authority has suspended Super Metro Limited’s operator license until the Company fully complies with the Public Service Vehicles Regulations, 2014 and other set conditions," the statement read.
The authority explained that the decision was necessitated by the need to ensure the Company is not only compliant but that it has put in place safety measures to protect the lives of its passengers and other road users.
The suspension comes after a series of road accidents involving Super Metro vehicles, which have led to several fatalities.
The most recent incident occurred on March 12, when a tout allegedly threw a man out of a moving bus over an unpaid fare.
While the company management took action by suspending the driver involved, numerous complaints have surfaced regarding other drivers, particularly about speeding and reckless driving.
NTSA further highlighted that a comprehensive inspection of the company's operations revealed several violations that led to the suspension.
Out of 523 vehicles, 15 had expired inspection certificates, and 8 lacked valid Road Service Licenses (RSL).
Additionally, 5 vehicles had expired speed limiter certificates, 88 vehicles were not transmitting speed data, and 171 vehicles had no speed limiter records.
There were also concerns regarding drivers who did not meet the required qualifications, posing a potential safety risk.
The company was also found in violation of the NTSA (Operation of Public Service Vehicles) Regulations 2014, particularly Section 5, sub-section 1(e), which mandates that companies operating public service vehicles comply with labor laws, workplace health and safety regulations, and statutory deductions.
NTSA has set several conditions for Super Metro Limited to regain its operating license.
These include presenting 294 vehicles with violations for compliance checks, ensuring 42 drivers with speed violations undergo retests, and disengaging unqualified drivers.
Additionally, the company must submit signed contracts for its drivers and staff, provide evidence of compliance with labor laws, and conduct road safety sensitization sessions for all drivers.
The authority has also cautioned the public against boarding Super Metro Limited’s vehicles during the suspension period, stating that traffic police will impound any vehicles found operating in violation of the suspension.
“The Traffic Department is required to impound vehicles belonging to the Company found operating contrary to the suspension,” NTSA warned.