Lagos Impounds 175 Vehicles in Crackdown on Illegal Dealer Plates

The Lagos State Government has issued a fresh warning to motorists and car dealers over the illegal use of dealer number plates, as the Vehicle Inspection Service intensifies enforcement across the state.

Under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018, dealer plates are meant for specific and temporary purposes only. Approved uses include test drives, vehicle inspections, and moving unregistered vehicles from ports, dealerships, or showrooms to designated locations.

The government stressed that using dealer plates for daily commuting, errands, or on vehicles that have already been sold and are awaiting permanent registration is a violation of the law.

In the latest enforcement drive, VIS apprehended 175 vehicles found operating with dealer plates outside the approved purposes. The illegal plates were confiscated and the vehicles have been detained for further investigation.

Officials also warned that vehicles found with fake, covered, or otherwise unauthorized registration numbers will face impoundment and prosecution.

The state government urged all vehicle dealers and motorists to adhere strictly to the regulations, noting that the enforcement is part of efforts to ensure proper vehicle identification, accountability, and safety on Lagos roads.