Lagos Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Use of Dealer Number Plates
The Lagos State Government has stepped up enforcement against motorists and vehicle dealers who illegally use dealer number plates for everyday driving, warning that the plates are not substitutes for permanent vehicle registration.
The state government disclosed this in a statement, explaining that dealer number plates are issued for specific and limited purposes under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018.
According to the government, the plates are intended for activities such as authorised test drives, vehicle inspections, delivery or collection of vehicles, and the movement of unregistered vehicles from ports or approved dealer premises to designated locations.
The government stressed that motorists are not permitted to use dealer number plates for regular private transportation, continuous movement on public roads or on vehicles that have already been sold but are yet to receive their permanent registration.
As part of the renewed enforcement, the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) has impounded 175 vehicles found to have violated the regulations governing the use of dealer number plates.
The government stated that the dealer plates recovered from the affected vehicles would be confiscated, while the vehicles would undergo further investigation to determine the appropriate action.
It also warned motorists and vehicle dealers against using unauthorised, fake, concealed or improperly displayed registration numbers. Vehicles found violating these regulations may be impounded, while offenders could face prosecution under relevant traffic laws.
The state government said the enforcement was necessary to ensure that vehicles operating on Lagos roads can be properly identified and accounted for. It added that compliance with vehicle registration regulations would contribute to improved road safety and better management of transportation across the state.
The government further urged vehicle dealers and motorists to familiarise themselves with the rules governing dealer number plates and ensure that the plates are used only for their legally approved purposes.
It emphasised that dealer plates are temporary identification tools for specific vehicle-related activities and must not be used as an alternative to obtaining permanent registration.
The renewed enforcement forms part of the Lagos State Government’s broader efforts to strengthen compliance with traffic regulations, promote accountability among road users and improve safety on the state’s roads.
Source: TVC News