The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has suspended the enforcement of vehicle tinted glass permit requirements across the country, following a court order halting the exercise.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, said the suspension was in full compliance with the directive of a competent court of law, adding that no police officer or formation should carry out checks or arrests based on tinted glass permits until further notice.
Adejobi noted that the decision underscores the Police’s commitment to respecting the rule of law and ensuring the protection of citizens’ rights. He explained that the suspension remains in effect pending the outcome of ongoing legal proceedings regarding the regulation and issuance of tinted glass permits.
“In line with the current court order, the Nigeria Police Force has suspended the enforcement of vehicle tinted glass permits nationwide. Officers are therefore directed to desist from demanding or inspecting such permits during routine operations,” the statement read.
The Force spokesperson clarified that the police would continue to enforce other traffic and security regulations to maintain safety on Nigerian roads. He also cautioned motorists against taking advantage of the suspension to engage in acts that could compromise public safety or aid criminal activities.
“The suspension does not in any way legalize the indiscriminate use of tinted glasses. We appeal to members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and report any abuse or suspicious activities involving vehicles with dark or obscured glasses,” Adejobi added.
The tinted glass permit had previously been a major tool in security checks, with law enforcement agencies arguing that unregulated use of tinted windows often hindered crime detection and investigation. However, many motorists and civil rights groups have long criticized the policy as being inconsistently applied and a source of harassment by police officers.
The recent court injunction is believed to have stemmed from multiple petitions challenging the legality of police enforcement of the policy, particularly its lack of clear administrative guidelines and alleged abuse of power.
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Legal experts say the suspension could pave the way for a comprehensive review of the policy, including the establishment of clearer, technology-driven procedures for issuing and verifying tinted glass permits.
Meanwhile, the Police reiterated their readiness to comply with any future judicial or government directive on the matter once the case is concluded.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains a law-abiding institution. We will continue to uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and accountability in all our operations,” Adejobi emphasized.
The Force also urged Nigerians to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring that all measures are being taken to balance individual rights with national security interests.
With the latest directive, motorists can now drive without fear of arrest or intimidation over tinted glass permits at least until the court delivers a final ruling on the issue.