Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, has ordered an immediate ban on the covering of vehicle number plates by government officials across the state.

The directive, which takes effect from Thursday, was contained in a circular issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prince Enobong Uwah, and addressed to Commissioners, Special Advisers, Chairmen of Boards and Commissions, Permanent Secretaries, and Heads of Parastatals.

According to the circular titled “Covering of Vehicle Number Plate Banned” (SSG’s Circular No. 7/2025), the decision followed reports that some vehicle owners, including public officials, have formed the habit of concealing their number plates—making it difficult for security agencies to identify vehicles and their occupants.

Governor Eno, the statement said, directed strict enforcement of the order to enhance public safety and support the implementation of his administration’s ARISE Agenda.

“All government officials with official vehicles are to obtain Government Registered Number Plates from the Office of the Secretary to the State Government for proper identification,” the circular stated.

It further warned that anyone caught violating the directive “will have himself or herself to blame.”

Prince Uwah urged all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to give the circular wide publicity, noting that the measure aims to strengthen security and ensure transparency in vehicular movement across the state.

The ban, according to the government, is part of ongoing efforts to maintain law and order, and to reassure citizens of the administration’s commitment to good governance and accountability.