The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has intercepted a Lexus LX570 SUV displaying a concealed number plate bearing the inscription “PRESIDENCY” in Maitama, Abuja.
The occupant was arrested after police investigations allegedly uncovered forged registration documents and suspected impersonation of a Permanent Secretary attached to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).
According to the police, the incident occurred at approximately 8 p.m. on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. The vehicle and its occupant were taken into custody for investigation and possible prosecution.
The FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, disclosed the development in a statement issued on behalf of the command.
She said preliminary investigations showed that the concealed plate carried the inscription “PRESIDENCY” and registration number 10B218 FG.
Police Uncover Alleged Forged Documents
The police said the suspect claimed to be the legitimate holder of the number plate when questioned by operatives.
However, further investigations allegedly revealed that the documents presented to support the claim were forged.
The command also alleged that the suspect was impersonating a Permanent Secretary attached to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
Police authorities have not announced the suspect’s identity in the reports reviewed. They have also not disclosed whether the suspect held any genuine government appointment or had previously used the plate to gain access to restricted locations.
The allegations remain subject to further investigation and judicial determination.
The command said investigations were ongoing and that the suspect would be charged in court upon their conclusion.
FCT Police Intensify Crackdown on Concealed Number Plates
The arrest comes weeks after the FCT Police Command warned motorists against operating vehicles with concealed, defaced or deliberately faded number plates.
In an October 4 statement, the command said such practices could obstruct the identification and tracking of vehicles connected to criminal activities.
The warning also covered unauthorised use of diplomatic number plates and vehicles operating without valid registration plates.
FCT Commissioner of Police Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi directed officers to intensify enforcement of existing vehicle identification requirements across the territory. He also instructed officers to conduct operations professionally and avoid using enforcement activities to extort motorists.
The Nigeria Police Force had earlier announced a nationwide enforcement drive against unregistered vehicles and concealed, altered or defaced number plates.
In June 2026, Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu directed police commands to stop offending vehicles and subject them to appropriate legal procedures. The directive identified vehicle registration as an important tool for crime prevention, intelligence gathering and public safety.
Police Urge Residents to Report Suspicious Activities
The FCT Police Command has urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement officers and report suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police station.
Members of the public can also contact the command through its published emergency numbers: 08032003913 and 08061581938.
The latest incident raises renewed concerns about the unauthorised use of official-looking number plates and the potential for impersonation of public officials.
However, the outcome of the investigation will depend on the evidence gathered by police and any subsequent court proceedings.
