Sometime last year in October, we provided you with a simple formula to successfully decode Nigerian number plates. Because we’re just too kind, we followed up with yet another formula to break down Ghanaian number plates.
Generally, number plates are one of the features in the automotive world that are similar and yet so distinct across different regions. They are also very important, as they hold useful information to identify a vehicle and its owner, especially during traffic stops. This is why fake number plates are heavily frowned upon. However, Nigeria is seeing a rise in fake black market number plates. This is due to a scarcity in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Despite the devaluation of the naira and hike in fuel prices, it seems like Nigerians are still purchasing a lot of vehicles. With such an influx of vehicles into the country, it is quite understandable that there is a scarcity. The scarcity affects mostly Abuja number plate which are much sought after, alongside the likes of Lagos number plates. Worse still, black market sellers are taking advantage of the situation.
Why the Scarcity?
The Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) in FCT has attributed the ongoing scarcity of vehicle number plates in Abuja to irregular and insufficient supply from the National Vehicle Identification Scheme (NVIS) Plant, while stressing that the situation is being addressed.
Unfortunately, these black market licence plates are not cheap to come by. Due to the high demand and low supply, black market sellers are exploiting Nigerians. To this effect, the DRTS has advised Nigerians to check their official website for approved prices of number plates and related services, so as not to get cheated. Vehicle owners have also been urged to insist on paying only the stipulated fees.
How to Identify a Fake License Plate
Unfortunately, there is no easy way to identify a fake license plate from a real one just by looking at them physically. The counterfeits are properly made and cloned to look like the original. Hence, the only way to spot a fake license plate is by running it through the FRSC website, nvis.frsc.gov.ng.
When you click on the link, you will see a box that reads, ‘verify number plate’. You then input your licence plate number and submit. One of three messages are expected; the first being ‘Valid and Assigned’, the second ‘Valid but not yet assigned’ and the third ‘invalid/wrong number plate’. The first message is a green light meaning original. For the second, it means your registration was probably not completed. So, you need to visit the FRSC office to complete it. The third message is a red flag meaning your number plate is fake and not from the FRSC.
Reporting Cases of Fake Number Plates
In the same breath, the Directorate also warned against the activities of fraudsters impersonating DRTS officials. In order to curb fraudulent activities, the DRTS is working closely with security agencies to apprehend and prosecute impostors. The agency has also urged the public to report suspicious individuals or illegal activities to the DRTS Management.
In a nutshell, Nigerians especially those living in FCT or who seek Abuja number plates should be careful, so as not to be cheated into paying huge sums of money for counterfeit number plates. Why do you think Abuja plates are so sought after?
