Unions Risk Sanctions Over Use of Stickers as Vehicle Number Plates – LASTMA

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) yesterday cautioned transport unions and commercial drivers against replacing government-issued number plates with union stickers, warning that the practice is illegal and poses serious security risks.

LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, in a statement signed by the agency’s spokesperson, Adebayo Taofiq, described the trend as a flagrant violation of traffic laws and a threat to public safety.

He said some commercial vehicle operators now display union or association stickers in place of valid registration plates, an act he insisted undermines law enforcement and compromises effective traffic management in the state.

“Only constitutionally recognised government agencies are empowered to issue vehicle registration numbers in Lagos. Any vehicle discovered navigating the roadways under the guise of ‘union stickers’ or other unauthorised identifiers shall be summarily impounded, while culprits will face the full weight of the law,” Bakare-Oki warned.

He added that the agency is working with security operatives to intensify surveillance on major traffic corridors across the state.

The LASTMA boss also urged transport unions to ensure their members comply with registration laws, stressing that proper documentation is a matter of public safety as well as regulatory compliance.

The agency reiterated its commitment to enforcing traffic discipline, sanitising road operations and ensuring safety on Lagos roads.