Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba has placed an indefinite ban on the use of SPY Vehicle Number Plates by all Nigerians including VIPs.
Newsonline reports that the IGP, Baba Usman also directed immediate confiscation of the number plates from all vehicles and arrest of offenders.
The Nigeria Police Chief said the ban affects whether authorized or not, as all approvals have been revoked indefinitely.
In a statement, on Wednesday, Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi stated that security details attached to VIPs have been directed to carry out the order on vehicles they are escorting or risk being arrested.
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The Force Public Relations Officer said the order followed the continuous disregard for traffic rules, regulations, and other extant laws guiding road use by individuals’ SPY plates.
Adejobi further stated that the IGP had already directed Commissioners of Police in States, the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, and supervisory Assistant Inspectors General of Police to ensure effective compliance with the order.
Part of the statement read, “The owners of such vehicles should not be arrested unless they are police officers or officers of other security agencies on escort duties.”
The IGP also warned officers to respect the rights of citizens while carrying out the order.
“Officers must ensure the rights and privileges of citizens are respected. Members of the public are enjoined to cooperate with the Police in this regard as the moves are aimed at strengthening our internal security”, Adejobi added.