FG, FRSC Move to End Abuse of Diplomatic Number Plates, Impound Over 1,000 Vehicles
FG, FRSC Move to End Abuse of Diplomatic Number Plates, Impound Over 1,000 Vehicles
FG, FRSC Move to End Abuse of Diplomatic Number Plates, Impound Over 1,000 Vehicles
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) have agreed to deepen collaboration aimed at curbing the widespread abuse of diplomatic and official number plates across Nigeria, following the interception of over 1,000 vehicles using fake or unauthorized plates nationwide.
In a joint statement issued by Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa and FRSC Corps Public Education Officer Osondu Ohaeri, both agencies announced enhanced cooperation, including real-time data sharing and the integration of diplomatic accreditation records with vehicle registration databases for improved verification.
The statement noted growing concerns over the illegal use of ambassadorial titles, forged diplomatic documents, and counterfeit diplomatic passports by individuals seeking to evade security checks and regulations.
According to the FRSC, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide disclosed that nationwide enforcement operations led to the interception of more than 1,000 vehicles fitted with fake diplomatic plates, cloned documents, and unauthorized government registration numbers.
The agencies warned that such practices undermine Nigeria’s diplomatic credibility, pose significant national security risks, and could be exploited for criminal activities. They stressed that the abuse of diplomatic privileges also damages the country’s international reputation.
Both the Ministry and the FRSC further announced plans to launch nationwide public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on the legal consequences of forgery, impersonation, and misuse of official identity materials.
They also urged members of the public to report suspected cases of abuse to relevant law enforcement authorities as part of ongoing efforts to restore order and integrity in vehicle registration and diplomatic protocols.
FG, FRSC Move to End Abuse of Diplomatic Number Plates, Impound Over 1,000 Vehicles
