LAGOS GOVERNMENT CRACKS DOWN ON ILLEGAL USE OF DEALER NUMBER PLATES AS 175 VEHICLES IMPOUNDED
The Lagos State Government has warned motorists and vehicle dealers to stop the illegal use of dealer number plates, describing the practice as a violation of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018.
The government said dealer plates are issued strictly for temporary and official purposes only. Permitted uses include authorised test drives, vehicle inspections, delivery or collection of vehicles, and moving unregistered vehicles directly from ports or dealer premises to designated locations. The law does not allow them for private daily use or continuous operation on public roads.
As part of ongoing enforcement, the Vehicle Inspection Service, VIS, has apprehended 175 vehicles found violating the regulations. According to officials, the dealer plates recovered from the vehicles will be confiscated while the vehicles will undergo further investigation. The operation is part of a wider clampdown to ensure compliance across the state.
Lagos government also warned that any vehicle found operating with unauthorised, fake, obscured, or improperly used registration numbers will face enforcement action. Such actions include impoundment and prosecution under relevant traffic laws. Officials stressed that the plates are not a substitute for permanent registration after a vehicle has been sold.
The state government said the measure is aimed at promoting accountability, accurate vehicle identification, and safety on Lagos roads. Authorities noted that misuse of dealer plates makes it difficult to trace vehicles involved in traffic offences and other crimes, thereby undermining law enforcement efforts.
It urged vehicle dealers and motorists to comply fully with the regulations. It reiterated that dealer number plates must not be used for commuting or on vehicles awaiting permanent registration. The government said strict monitoring will continue to ensure that only authorised users deploy the plates for their intended purpose.
