Insecurity: FRSC warns Nigerians against unauthorised covering of vehicle number plates

*The Federal Road Safety Corps cautions Nigerian motorists, especially politicians and Very Important Personalities against use and covering of special vehicle number plates without authorisation in view of the current security situation in the country

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

Against the backdrop of the current eerie security situation in several parts of the West African country, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Akwa Ibom Command, has warned Nigerian motorists, especially politicians and Very Important Personalities (VIPs) against covering and use of special number plates on their vehicles without authorisation.

Mr. Matthew Olonisaye, Sector Commander in Akwa Ibom State, Tuesday, February 22, 2022, gave the warning in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, in Uyo, the state capital.

The FRSC Sector Commander said that it was illegal to cover or use special number plates without proper registration and approval.

Olonisaye stated: “It is improper for the citizens to subvert the law, especially with the present security challenges facing the nation.’’

He noted anyone who wants to use special number plate should apply through the State Board of Internal Revenue.

The government then, will give the FRSC the directive to produce the special number plate for such an individual.

The Corps also appealed to those using special number plates to desist from them, as the regulatory Commission has the mandate to apprehend any defaulters.

“The condition of issuing a special number plate is very simple. It is compulsory for all vehicles to register their vehicles before putting them on the road.

“An applicant for a special number plate is expected to fill and complete a form and pay a prescribed fee and obtain vehicle registration,” said he.

The Commander further said: “He is also expected to obtain insurance certificate and road worthiness certificate before coming to obtain a special number plate.

“The special number plate is on request, all those using the special number plate should go and do the needful.

“It is illegal to go about with special number plate or with cover on your vehicle, because if they use such vehicle to commit crime, there is no way we can trace it.”

He as well noted: “Those people who refuse to obey, when we see them, we will impound their vehicles and give them prescribed fines.

“We appeal to our politicians to cooperate with us to improve on the security challenges facing the nation.’’

A number plate is like a name used for identification; covering it is like hiding your name, which is improper, Olonisaye stated.

He added: “Everyone should be aware that it is illegal to cover your number plate in anyway.

“That number plate on the vehicles is like a name given to an individual and the only means of identification of such automobile

“So, people should do the needful and register their vehicles properly to avoid abuse,’’ he said.

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