The Nigerian House of Representatives has urged the Nigeria Police Force and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to take strict action against individuals using fake vehicle number plates. Lawmakers raised concerns about how these fraudulent plates contribute to rising criminal activities across the country.
The motion, sponsored by Matthew Nwogu, who represents Aboh Mbaise/Ngor Okpala Federal Constituency of Imo State, was discussed during Thursday’s plenary session.
Nwogu noted that vehicle number plates play a crucial role in identifying vehicles and assisting security agencies in tracking down suspects. He referenced a report from Vanguard published on February 7, 2025, which detailed how criminals often use counterfeit plates to commit crimes.
The FRSC Lagos Sector Commander, as quoted in the report, stated that many fake number plates found on crime scenes bear the tags of well-known institutions such as the Presidency, Nigeria Youth Council, and the National Association of Nigerian Students.
Nwogu further noted that several crimes, including ‘one chance’ robberies and kidnappings, have been linked to vehicles with fake plates. He expressed concerns over the growing security risks posed by these illegal plates and stressed the need for immediate action.
“The House is concerned that some number plates bearing the Presidency, Nigeria Youth Council, National Association of Nigerian Students, and other government agencies are, according to the FRSC Lagos Sector Command, not registered in the Nigeria Vehicle Registration database,” he stated.
Following a voice vote, the lawmakers unanimously supported the motion. As part of its resolution, the House directed the FRSC and the Nigeria Police Force to work together in cracking down on those using fake number plates. They also called for efforts to track and prosecute manufacturers of these fraudulent plates.
