The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has clarified its position on the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy following public debates and a statement by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) questioning the legality of the policy amid ongoing litigation.
In a statement issued on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police said it was necessary to provide institutional clarity in order to reassure the public, uphold the rule of law and maintain public order.
The clarification followed concerns raised by the NBA, which had argued that the tinted glass permit policy is currently a subject of litigation and should not be enforced pending a final determination by the courts. The NBA also warned that continued enforcement could undermine the judicial process and expose motorists to harassment, extortion and abuse by law enforcement officers, citing past experiences associated with tinted glass checks.
Responding, the Police reiterated that it is constitutionally empowered to maintain public safety, prevent crime and preserve internal security, stressing that it operates strictly within the confines of the law and under civil authority. The Force reaffirmed its respect for the judiciary and its commitment to complying fully with all valid court orders.
However, the NPF clarified that the existence of pending litigation does not, in itself, extinguish its lawful responsibilities, except where a court has expressly directed otherwise.
“As of today, there is no final judicial pronouncement declaring the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy unlawful, nor is there any subsisting order permanently restraining the Nigeria Police Force from performing its statutory duties in relation to the regulation of tinted vehicle glasses,” the statement said.
The Police added that the policy remains part of the existing regulatory framework for road safety, crime prevention and national security, noting that the misuse of heavily tinted vehicles has been linked globally and within Nigeria to serious crimes such as kidnapping and armed robbery.
The Force also explained that an internal administrative communication issued on December 15, 2025, was intended solely to guide planning and improve public understanding, and did not authorise immediate enforcement actions or conduct inconsistent with any subsisting court process.
While assuring that any lawful enforcement would be carried out with professionalism, moderation and strict adherence to human rights standards, the Police reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on extortion, harassment or abuse of authority by its personnel, warning that officers found culpable would face disciplinary action.
The Nigeria Police Force acknowledged the NBA as a valued stakeholder in the justice sector and called for constructive engagement grounded in mutual respect for institutional roles, adding that public exchanges should not undermine confidence in law enforcement or the judiciary.
The Police urged members of the public to remain calm and continue their lawful activities as the matter awaits judicial determination, reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives, property and the stability of the nation.
