By Adesakin Adefemi
The Ogun State Police Command has commenced a statewide enforcement exercise targeting vehicles operating with covered, obscured, defaced, or unauthorized registration number plates. The directive, issued in line with instructions from the Inspector-General of Police, aims to strengthen security and deny criminals the anonymity they exploit during operations.
Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, has ordered all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Team Commanders to impound offending vehicles and conduct thorough investigations in accordance with existing laws. The enforcement covers not only vehicles with hidden plates but also those bearing fake, altered, or improperly issued number plates.
According to the Command, the measure is part of efforts to enhance public safety and improve the ability of law enforcement to identify vehicles, investigate crimes, and track suspects. Officials noted that obscured plates have repeatedly hindered investigations into armed robbery, kidnapping, and other serious offences across the state.
The directive exempts only vehicles officially entitled to display flags under established protocols. All other motorists, including transport operators and fleet owners, are required to ensure their vehicles display valid and clearly visible registration plates at all times.
The Command emphasized that the exercise is not designed to inconvenience law-abiding citizens but to tighten the state’s security architecture. Police said the visibility of registration numbers remains a critical tool for crime detection, traffic management, and accountability.
Ojajuni assured residents that officers deployed for the enforcement have been instructed to conduct themselves professionally and courteously while operating within the limits of the law. The Command also urged motorists to cooperate with personnel during stops and checks.
Residents have been advised to verify the authenticity of their vehicle registration and to avoid makeshift covers or alterations that render plates unreadable. Fleet operators were similarly cautioned to ensure compliance across all vehicles under their control.
The Ogun Police Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, and called on the public to support the initiative by providing credible and timely information on suspicious vehicles or activities.
For emergencies or to share information, residents can reach the Command through Gateway Shield toll-free line 0800 000 9111, or on emergency numbers 0906 283 7609, 0912 014 1706, 0915 102 7369, and 0708 497 2994.
