Attention Nigerian drivers! Covering your vehicle’s number plates is no longer optional – it’s illegal. The Nigeria Police Force has made it clear, through spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi, that hiding those plates won’t fly anymore.
Mr Adejobi, an Assistant Commissioner of Police, took to social media to address the widespread practice of obscuring number plates. He called it “wrong” and even “criminal,” highlighting the importance of vehicle registration and visibility.
KNOW YOUR LAW:
Still on vehicle related offences. It is a common thing to see many vehicle owners and drivers to cover their number plates, for no reason, this is wrong and even criminal. You don’t cover your number plate for any reason. It is as important and compulsory for… pic.twitter.com/oTMEfQLIqV
— Prince Olumuyiwa Adejobi (@Princemoye1) December 15, 2023
“There’s no good reason to keep your number plates hidden,” he stated. “Registration is mandatory, and those numbers need to be seen, all the time.”
His message wasn’t just for drivers. He urged police officers and traffic officials to crack down on violators. “This lawlessness stops now,” he declared. “Our officers and traffic personnel are on notice to apprehend anyone breaking this rule. It’s against the law, plain and simple.”
He emphasized the dangers of obscured plates: “It fuels recklessness and crime, allowing people to get away with anything. Let’s work together to stamp it out.”
However, there are a few exceptions. “Pennant officers” and leaders of the three branches of government (executive, legislative, and judiciary) are granted an exemption due to their designated flags and pennants on official vehicles.
But even for them, there are conditions. “Their office seals or ranks are displayed alongside their numbers and pennants,” Mr. Adejobi explained. But remember, “after 6 pm, the pennant goes down, and those official plates come uncovered.”
Even flags on official vehicles need to follow the rules. When the occupants are away, the flag must be covered with the vehicle’s number plate or official seal.
So, Nigerian drivers, remember: keeping your plates hidden is a thing of the past. It’s time to drive transparently and responsibly. Let’s make the roads safer for everyone!
