Vehicle Dealers Challenge Lagos VIS Over Number Plate Enforcement
Ayómide Tiwatayo, Lagos
LAGOS — Vehicle dealers in Lagos have criticised the Lagos State Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) over a viral video on the enforcement of number plate regulations, describing some of the claims made in the footage as misleading and inconsistent with existing laws governing trade licence plates.
The dealers, under their union, reacted to a recent enforcement operation by the VIS targeting alleged violations of number plate regulations by vehicle dealers across the state.
In a statement, the union said the video had created a false impression about the legal framework regulating the use of trade licence plates and sought to clarify the provisions of the law.
According to the union, the relevant regulations are contained in the Federal Republic of Nigeria Official Gazette No. 15, Volume 110, dated January 23, 2023, under the provisions of the Special Trade Licence, Part III, Section 26.
The union explained that the regulation permits vehicle dealers to obtain trade licences for use in specific business-related circumstances. These include moving vehicles from ports, rail stations or other delivery points to dealerships, testing vehicles after assembly or repair, and allowing prospective buyers to test vehicles before purchase.
The dealers further noted that the licence also covers the transportation of new or repaired vehicles in the normal course of business, including delivery to customers.
However, the union acknowledged that the regulations impose certain restrictions on the use of trade licence plates. These include prohibitions against carrying passengers or goods for commercial purposes, allowing unauthorised persons to use vehicles under dealership, and operating such vehicles between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.
While recognising these provisions, the union argued that the restriction on vehicle movement between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. was outdated and incompatible with current business realities.
“The only noteworthy restriction is in time, which is from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., as all other restrictions are neither here nor there,” the union stated.
The dealers said they would intensify advocacy efforts aimed at reviewing and removing the time restriction, which they described as discriminatory and impractical for modern vehicle trading operations.
They also urged stakeholders in the transport sector to comply with existing number plate regulations while calling on enforcement agencies to ensure that all enforcement activities are conducted within the limits of the law.
The union further warned against any form of intimidation or harassment of its members, stressing that it would resist actions capable of disrupting legitimate business activities in the sector.
