The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has insisted that the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy remains valid and enforceable, saying it has not violated any court order despite growing criticism from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
In a statement released on Wednesday, the police said it was responding to public debates and comments attributed to the NBA President, following the Force’s announcement that enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy would resume from January 2, 2026.
The controversy began after the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, issued a statement on December 15, 2025, announcing the planned resumption of enforcement. The NBA strongly criticised the move, describing it as a disregard for the rule of law, especially with court cases already challenging the policy.
However, the police clarified that the earlier suspension of enforcement was a voluntary administrative decision, not one compelled by any court order. According to the Force, the pause was meant to give motorists enough time to regularise their permits and complete applications without pressure.
The NPF explained that its decision to revisit enforcement was driven by a noticeable rise in crimes linked to vehicles with unauthorised tinted glass. It said such vehicles have increasingly been used for serious offences, including kidnapping and armed robbery, posing a threat to public safety.
While acknowledging the NBA’s concerns, the police stressed that there is currently no final court judgment declaring the policy illegal, nor any permanent order stopping the Force from regulating tinted vehicle glasses. It added that pending court cases do not automatically suspend the police’s statutory responsibility to maintain security, unless expressly directed by a court.
The Force also addressed a Federal High Court order from the Warri Division directing parties to maintain the status quo, stating that it has continued to act with restraint and respect for the judiciary. It emphasised that internal planning or public communication should not be mistaken for defiance of court processes.
Reaffirming its respect for the rule of law, the Inspector General of Police assured Nigerians that the Force would comply fully with all valid court orders and would not undermine ongoing judicial proceedings. The police also promised that any future enforcement would be carried out professionally, with strict respect for human rights.
Finally, the NPF warned its officers against extortion, harassment or abuse of power, stressing that any personnel found guilty of such conduct would face disciplinary action. The Force urged the public to remain calm as the legal process continues, assuring Nigerians that public safety remains its primary concern.
