RSC Hails Court Ruling Affirming Its Power to Penalize Number Plate Offenders

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has applauded a recent judgement by the Federal High Court in Lagos that affirms its authority to sanction motorists who flout traffic laws, especially those related to number plate regulations.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja by the Corps Public Education Officer (CPEO), Olusegun Ogungbemide. According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the ruling was delivered on June 23, 2025, by Justice Musa Kakaki in suit No. FHC/L/CS/2367/2024, filed by Ojo Victor Olomi against the Federal Road Safety Commission.

Ogungbemide explained that the court dismissed Olomi’s suit, which contested the FRSC’s decision to fine him and seize his driver’s licence after he was found with a hand-painted, non-reflective number plate — a violation of the National Road Traffic Regulations, 2016.

He noted that the regulation requires number plates to be reflective to ensure visibility, enhance security, and facilitate enforcement. Justice Kakaki ruled that the applicant’s action constituted a legal offence and that the FRSC’s seizure of his driver’s licence did not breach his fundamental rights.

The judgement also differentiated this case from the earlier Chinwike Ezebube v. FRSC ruling, clarifying that hand-painted number plates remain illegal and punishable under the law.

Ogungbemide described the decision as a pivotal legal endorsement of the FRSC’s mandate and enforcement powers. “This judgement reinforces the Corps’ legal authority to uphold traffic safety laws, particularly those concerning proper vehicle identification,” he stated.

In response, the Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, urged motorists to avoid actions that undermine road safety, such as tampering with number plates. He also cautioned the public against misinterpreting prior court rulings and encouraged Nigerians to take note of the legal clarity offered by this latest judgement.

“The FRSC remains fully committed to its mission of ensuring safer roads and will continue to discharge its lawful duties with professionalism, integrity, and full respect for citizens’ rights,” Mohammed affirmed.