IGP Directs Nationwide Clampdown On Vehicles Without Number Plates

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has ordered police commands and formations across the country to commence a nationwide enforcement operation against vehicles operating without registration number plates or with plates that are concealed, defaced, or illegally altered.

According to Ireporter Online, the directive is part of renewed efforts by the Nigeria Police Force to strengthen public safety and improve security through enhanced vehicle identification and monitoring.

The police chief disclosed that security agencies have observed a growing number of vehicles plying roads without proper registration, a trend he described as a serious security concern. He noted that some motorists intentionally obscure or manipulate their number plates to evade identification and frustrate law enforcement investigations.

Disu emphasized that vehicle registration serves purposes beyond documentation, describing it as a vital tool in crime prevention and intelligence gathering. He explained that criminals frequently exploit unregistered or untraceable vehicles to carry out offences such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and other violent crimes, making it more difficult for security operatives to track their activities.

The IGP directed Commissioners of Police, tactical commanders, and all police formations nationwide to intensify inspections and strictly enforce the regulations within their jurisdictions. He further instructed officers to implement the directive fairly and impartially, insisting that no individual should receive preferential treatment.

He warned that any vehicle found operating without valid registration plates or with hidden, damaged, or tampered number plates would be impounded and processed in accordance with existing laws.

The police boss also urged motorists to ensure their vehicles are duly registered and fully compliant with the country’s traffic and vehicle registration regulations to avoid sanctions during the enforcement exercise.