The Lagos State Government has seized 175 vehicles for violating regulations governing dealer number plates, issuing a fresh warning that such plates are strictly prohibited for daily or permanent driving. The Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) apprehended the vehicles across the state, with offenders facing confiscation, impoundment, and possible prosecution.
Dealer Plates Restricted to Specific Purposes
Mrs Bolanle Ogunlola, the Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Transportation, issued the warning in a statement in Lagos, urging vehicle owners and dealers to comply with the regulations. She explained that the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018, permits dealer number plates only for specific and limited activities.
Approved uses include authorised test drives, vehicle inspections, delivery or collection of vehicles, and the transportation of unregistered vehicles from ports or approved dealership premises to designated destinations. Ogunlola stressed that dealer plates are not intended for regular personal transportation or unrestricted movement on public roads.
"Their use for private daily commuting, continuous operation on public roads, or on vehicles already sold is prohibited," Ogunlola said.
175 Vehicles Apprehended for Violations
According to Ogunlola, the Vehicle Inspection Service has so far impounded 175 vehicles found to have violated the rules governing dealer number plates. She disclosed that the dealer plates retrieved from the affected vehicles would be confiscated, while the vehicles would be subjected to further investigation.
The government also warned that motorists found using fake, unauthorised, concealed, or improperly displayed registration numbers would face enforcement measures. The warning comes as part of broader efforts to improve vehicle identification and road safety across Lagos State.
Government Threatens Sanctions
Ogunlola said violators could face sanctions including vehicle impoundment and prosecution in line with relevant traffic regulations. She called on motorists and vehicle dealers to familiarise themselves with the rules and ensure that dealer number plates are used strictly for approved purposes.
She added that enforcing the regulation would strengthen accountability, improve vehicle identification, and contribute to safer roads across Lagos. The statement did not specify a timeline for the seizures or further enforcement actions, but the government reiterated its commitment to sustained compliance checks.
