Godsent Ogbebor
FRSC Impounds 350 Vehicles Over Unauthorized Number Plates
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has impounded over 350 vehicles nationwide within a month for using unauthorized number plates.
The Corps Public Education Officer, Olusegun Ogungbemide, disclosed this on Monday in Abuja while speaking with journalists. He noted that the enforcement drive, which began on February 3, targets vehicles with fake registration numbers and illegal use of number plates by private, commercial, government, and diplomatic vehicles.
Ogungbemide emphasized that the proliferation of fake number plates poses serious security risks, undermining law enforcement efforts and national security.
“The initial phase of the operation, which started in Abuja, focused on vehicles with fake diplomatic numbers, unrecognized plates, and other infractions. We don’t know where these plates were printed from or who authorized them,” he stated.
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He further explained that after a two-week pilot phase in Abuja, the crackdown was extended to all states, leading to the seizure of 350 vehicles within one month.
“The enforcement is ongoing because this issue goes beyond road safety; it is also a security concern. The widespread use of illegal number plates compromises national security, which is why we are taking decisive action,” Ogungbemide added.
The FRSC urged vehicle owners to obtain their number plates legally through the National Vehicle Identification Scheme (NVIS), describing the process as simple and affordable.
He also warned against the unauthorized use of fancy number plates, stating that while they are allowed, they must be acquired through proper channels.
“Anyone who can afford millions of naira to buy a vehicle should be willing to spend a few thousand naira to obtain a legal number plate. It’s about prioritizing safety and security,” he said.
Ogungbemide reaffirmed the FRSC’s commitment to ensuring that all vehicles on Nigerian roads comply with legal registration requirements. He called on the public to cooperate with the agency and report any suspicious number plates to the nearest FRSC office.