The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has defended its policy on tinted-glass permits, maintaining that it is legal, transparent, and supported by existing laws, in response to a lawsuit filed by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) at the Federal High Court.
In a statement released on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police dismissed the NBA’s claims as “false, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to undermine the credibility, integrity, and lawful operations of the Force.”
The NBA had argued that compelling motorists to obtain annual permits for vehicles with tinted glass, through a digital platform created by the NPF, violates constitutional rights. Though enforcement was originally set to begin on June 1, the Police postponed implementation until October 2.
Hundeyin explained that the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act, 2004, particularly Section 2(3a), authorises the Inspector-General of Police or designated officers to issue such permits. He added that Section 1(2) requires applicants to justify their need, citing health or security reasons, before approval can be granted.
According to him, the regulation is aimed at enhancing crime prevention, especially against violent offences such as kidnapping, armed robbery, terrorism, and “one-chance” incidents.
Addressing concerns about charges, the Police stressed that the fees attached to permits are only “processing fees” used to maintain the digital infrastructure supporting the service. They referenced Section 26(e) and (f) of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, which empowers the Force to provide specialised services at a cost.
Hundeyin also highlighted the impact of the Electronic Central Motor Registry (e-CMR), which has aided in recovering many stolen vehicles across the country.
“The Force has achieved notable successes with the e-CMR, in line with international best practices, underscoring the importance of modernised policing services,” the statement read.
Reaffirming the Police’s stance, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun assured Nigerians that the tinted-glass permit initiative is lawful and vital for public safety. He further emphasised the Force’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, and respect for citizens’ rights.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains dedicated to protecting the rights of Nigerians while ensuring national security,” the IGP stated.
