Police ban covered number plates, unregistered vehicles in Lagos
Lagos Police Commissioner Issues Ban on Vehicle Number Plate Covers
LAGOS, Nigeria — Commissioner of Police Jimoh Olohundare announced a ban on the obscuring of vehicle number plates throughout Lagos State on Monday, stating that enforcement will soon be implemented against violators.
In addition to prohibiting covered number plates, Olohundare warned motorists against the use of vehicles with tinted windshields that obscure the front and right-side windows. He also emphasized the necessity of driving only registered vehicles on Lagos roads.
The commissioner made these remarks during a press conference following a meeting with state police officers to communicate directives from Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
“Covering plate numbers and using tinted glass on the front and right windows is prohibited,” Olohundare stated. “People are also prohibited from using unregistered vehicles.”
This announcement follows instructions discussed in a March 2026 meeting with senior officers, where matters of discipline, supervision, and professionalism within the police force were emphasized. Olohundare indicated that the Lagos command had begun to inform officers of the new directives less than 24 hours after that meeting, with the intent of enhancing operational standards and service delivery.
He underlined the importance of effective supervision to ensure compliance with human rights standards and globally recognized policing practices.
Olohundare also stressed the significance of community policing, urging officers to collaborate closely with local residents to better understand and address security concerns in their neighborhoods. “Community priorities must guide policing strategies,” he said, noting that officers should work alongside locals to address emerging security challenges.
Additionally, he reported that the Inspector-General had instructed commands nationwide to bolster training for officers, especially in crime prevention and security management during large public events. Olohundare added that personnel assigned to such operations must ensure comprehensive security from start to finish.
The commissioner reiterated that any misconduct or violations of citizens’ rights by officers will not be tolerated, affirming that all police personnel must maintain professionalism and respect for the dignity of Nigerian citizens.
