Police ban covered number plates, unregistered vehicles in Lagos

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Jimoh Olohundare, has declared that it is now prohibited for motorists in the state to cover their vehicle number plates, warning that the command will begin strict enforcement of the directive.

The CP also cautioned against the use of tinted glasses that obscure the front and right side of vehicles as well as the use of unregistered vehicles on Lagos roads.

The Lagos police boss made the declaration on Monday during a press briefing after addressing officers and men of the command on directives issued by the Inspector-General of Police, Disu Olatunji.

According to him, any vehicle owner who purchases a car must ensure it is immediately registered, stressing that the command will enforce the rules while respecting the human rights and dignity of citizens.

“It is prohibited for anyone in Lagos to cover their plate number or to use tinted glasses where the front screen and the right screen are tinted and covered. People are also prohibited from using unregistered vehicles,” he said.

CO Jimoh explained that the briefing became necessary following directives issued by the Inspector-General of Police during a meeting with police leadership in early March 2026, where the need for improved professionalism, supervision and discipline within the force was emphasised.

He said the command had already begun sensitising officers on the new directives less than 24 hours after the meeting, adding that the goal was to strengthen policing standards and improve service delivery.

The commissioner stressed the need for strict supervision of officers to ensure respect for human rights and adherence to international best practices in policing.

He also reiterated the importance of community policing, urging officers to work closely with residents to identify and address security challenges within their communities.

According to him, community priorities must guide policing strategies across the state.

The CP further disclosed that the Inspector-General had emphasised increased training of personnel, particularly in crime prevention and security management during major events.

He said officers deployed for special duties must ensure adequate security coverage from the beginning to the end of such assignments.

The CP also noted that the IGP had directed commands nationwide to return to basic policing principles, which focus on closer engagement with members of the public.

He warned that human rights abuses by police officers would not be tolerated, stressing that all personnel must uphold the dignity and rights of Nigerians.