Tourists Harassed Over Right-Hand Drive Vehicle in Nigeria Despite Presenting Valid Entry Papers
A group of foreign tourists has alleged harassment by a Nigerian police officer after being stopped over their right-hand drive vehicle, despite presenting what they described as valid entry and vehicle documentation.
According to the travellers, the incident occurred at a police checkpoint while they were on a cross-country road trip through Nigeria. The tourists claimed that the officer questioned the legality of operating a right-hand drive vehicle within the country, even after they provided customs clearance papers and other entry documents issued at the border.
Nigeria operates a left-hand traffic system, meaning vehicles are typically left-hand drive. However, right-hand drive vehicles may be temporarily permitted under specific circumstances, particularly for foreign visitors transiting through the country with proper documentation.
The tourists alleged that despite complying with requests to present passports, vehicle registration papers, and temporary import permits, the officer insisted that the vehicle was not authorised to operate on Nigerian roads. They further claimed that the situation escalated into what they described as intimidation and threats of impoundment.
In a statement shared online, the travellers maintained that all necessary documents had been legally processed upon entry into Nigeria and that they were unaware of any restriction prohibiting their vehicle type under their travel arrangement.
The Nigerian Police Force has not officially responded to the allegations as of the time of this report. However, legal experts note that disputes involving foreign-registered vehicles often arise from misunderstandings about customs regulations, road safety laws, and state-level enforcement practices.
Under Nigerian law, permanently importing right-hand drive vehicles is generally restricted, but temporary admission for tourists or transit purposes may be granted with appropriate authorisation from customs authorities.
The incident has sparked debate on social media, with some Nigerians calling for clearer guidelines to avoid similar disputes in the future, while others urged travellers to familiarise themselves thoroughly with local vehicle regulations before entering the country.
As investigations continue, observers say the case underscores the need for improved communication between border authorities and law enforcement agencies to prevent conflicting interpretations of vehicle entry rules.
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