175 Cars Seized In Lagos VIO Dealer Plate Number Ban Enforcement

The Lagos State Government (LASG) has issued a stern warning to motorists and automobile dealers against the routine use of dealer number plates on public roads. This warning follows a recent swift operation by the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) which impounded 175 vehicles violating state transport regulations.

In an official statement from the Ministry of Transportation, the Director of Public Affairs, Mrs. Bolanle Ogunlola, announced that the massive enforcement drive by the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) targeted the misuse of dealer plates which are strictly restricted to specific activities.

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According to the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law (TSRL 2018), dealer plates are not a lifetime license for daily commuting. Permitted uses are legally confined to moving unregistered vehicles from ports to showrooms, conducting customer test drives, delivery or collection, and transporting vehicles for official inspection.

Emphasizing that these movements are restricted to working days, Monday through Friday, between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, she condemned the practice where motorists abuse temporary plates to evade standard vehicle registration costs.

Mrs. Ogunlola reiterated that using dealer plates for private commuting, weekend runs, social events, or on sold vehicles is illegal. “Their use for private daily commuting, continuous operation on public roads, or on vehicles already sold is prohibited,” Mrs. Ogunlola said.

For offending motorists, she warned that consequences for driving with the temporary registration plate include confiscation of dealer plate and instant vehicle impoundment for further investigation.

The director urged vehicle dealers and motorists to comply fully with regulations governing dealer number plates. She added that the measure aims to promote accountability, accurate vehicle identification, and safety on Lagos roads.

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