In a startling revelation, the Lagos State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Kehinde Hamzat, has disclosed that most fake number plates used in criminal activities across Nigeria carry the tags of ‘Presidency’ and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).
The shocking claim was announced via Nigerian Stories’ official X handle, sparking widespread concern about the rampant misuse of government and student association insignias to evade law enforcement.
According to Commander Hamzat, the FRSC has observed a disturbing pattern where fraudulent individuals, including criminal gangs and high-profile fraudsters, use counterfeit license plates branded with government and student association identifiers. These fake plates serve as a shield against police scrutiny, allowing criminals to move freely without suspicion.
“We have seen an alarming number of counterfeit plates bearing ‘Presidency’ and ‘NANS’ tags being used in crimes ranging from car theft and smuggling to kidnappings and armed robbery,” Hamzat revealed.
Security analysts suggest that these forged number plates help criminals:
Evade law enforcement checkpoints, as officers hesitate to stop vehicles with official government insignia.
Impersonate government officials and student leaders, gaining unauthorized access to restricted areas.
Carry out high-profile crimes such as kidnappings, illegal arms transportation, and financial fraud while hiding behind the illusion of legitimacy.
In response to the growing threat, the FRSC has intensified its nationwide crackdown on counterfeit number plates, collaborating with the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to track and dismantle syndicates involved in the illegal trade.
“We are working with intelligence units to identify and prosecute those responsible for fabricating and distributing these fraudulent plates,” Hamzat assured.
Authorities also warn that any individual caught using a fake plate—especially one with government or student association tags—will face severe legal consequences, including imprisonment.
Following the revelation, Nigerians have taken to social media to demand stricter enforcement and heightened security measures. Many are calling for:
A comprehensive audit of all government and student association-issued vehicle registrations.
Advanced security features on number plates to prevent forgery.
Harsher penalties for those found guilty of using or producing fake plates.
With concerns mounting over how deep this criminal network runs, the question remains: Will the government take decisive action to end this dangerous trend, or will criminals continue to exploit the system unchecked?
PIONEER NEWS 