By Gabriel Ameh
ABUJA, Nigeria – Motorists using fake, concealed, defaced or expired vehicle number plates are set to face renewed enforcement as the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) prepares to launch the second phase of its special operation, tagged Operation Guduma II.
The five-day exercise, scheduled to run from November 2 to 6, 2026, is aimed at strengthening vehicle identification, improving road safety and supporting national security efforts.
The operation will target motorists violating vehicle registration regulations, particularly those using fraudulent or improperly displayed number plates to evade identification and security surveillance.
Approved by the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, the exercise will cover selected states, with designated senior officers assigned to coordinate and supervise enforcement activities.
Operation Guduma II follows the first phase conducted in May 2026, during which the FRSC arrested 1,691 motorists across 11 states for various traffic and vehicle registration offences.
According to the Corps, 1,003 motorists were arrested for different number plate violations, while 683 were apprehended for overloading and mixed-loading. Five others were arrested for using fake diplomatic number plates.
The renewed enforcement comes amid security concerns raised by the Office of the National Security Adviser over the increasing use of counterfeit, concealed, defaced and obsolete vehicle registration plates.
The FRSC warned that vehicles operating with unidentifiable number plates could provide opportunities for criminals to evade surveillance, conceal their identities and frustrate security investigations.
Corps Marshal Mohammed said the use of fake, concealed, defaced or obsolete number plates would no longer be treated as an ordinary traffic violation because of its wider implications for public safety and national security.
He urged motorists to ensure their vehicle registration plates are genuine, valid, clearly visible and properly displayed before the commencement of the exercise.
Beyond number plate enforcement, Operation Guduma II will also focus on maintaining free-flowing traffic along designated routes, emergency rescue operations and the prompt removal of road obstructions.
The Corps Marshal directed FRSC personnel to carry out the exercise professionally, with discipline and respect for citizens’ rights.
He particularly emphasised the need for appropriate courtesy and strict compliance with diplomatic protocols when dealing with vehicles bearing diplomatic number plates.
The FRSC also called on members of the public to cooperate with its personnel throughout the operation.
The Corps maintained that the exercise forms part of its broader efforts to protect lives and property, improve road safety compliance and prevent the exploitation of vehicle registration irregularities for criminal activities.
With the second phase scheduled to begin on November 2, motorists are advised to verify their vehicle registration documents and ensure their number plates comply with existing regulations.
SOURCE: Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), as reported by Per Second News.
