The Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba has ordered a ban on the use of SPY Vehicle Number Plates in the country, says all approvals have been revoked indefinitely, irrespective of whether it is authorized or not.
The order was conveyed in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, on Wednesday, following the continuous disregard for traffic rules, regulations and other extant laws guiding road use by individuals’ SPY plates.
While directing policemen and officers of other security agencies attached to VIPs to ensure prompt compliance or face arrest, Usman Baba urged members of the public to cooperate with the Police in this regard as the moves are aimed at strengthening the internal security of the country.
The statement reads in parts; “This is irrespective of whether it is authorised, or not, as all authorizations are hereby revoked indefinitely. This order is necessary to forestall the continuous disregard for traffic rules and regulations and other extant laws guiding road use by individuals hiding under the privileges of SPY police number plates.
“The IGP has therefore directed that police officers and officers of other security agencies attached to VIPs who use the SPY number plates should ensure prompt compliance with this directive or risk being arrested for violation of the order.
“Meanwhile, the IGP has directed Commissioners of Police in the 36 States of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory, as well as their supervisory Assistant Inspectors General of Police, to give full effect to the directives as contained above.
“The IGP specifically directed the AIGs and CPs to ensure that all SPY number plates currently in use are confiscated henceforth but the owners of such vehicles should not be arrested unless they are police officers or officers of other security agencies on escort duties.
“Other security agencies and members of the public are enjoined to cooperate with the Police in this regard as the moves are aimed at strengthening our internal security.” He stressed
The IGP however warned that while carrying out these assignments, officers must ensure the rights and privileges of citizens are respected in line with the laws of the land and in accordance with international best practices.