Tinted Glass Permit Policy Still Valid — Police

T The Nigeria Police Force has clarified that the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy remains valid and enforceable, despite ongoing public discussions and legal challenges surrounding its implementation.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Force said it was responding to recent debates on the policy, including comments credited to the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, stressing the need to provide clarity, reassure the public and maintain public order. The police noted that while civic engagement is essential in a democracy, such discussions must be guided by respect for the rule of law.

According to the statement, the Police Force, established under the Constitution, remains committed to its statutory responsibilities of maintaining public safety, preventing crime and preserving internal security, while operating under civil authority and within the confines of the law.

The Inspector-General of Police reaffirmed the Force’s respect for the judiciary, stating that it would comply fully with all valid orders of courts of competent jurisdiction and would not act in any manner that could undermine ongoing judicial proceedings.

“At the same time, it is important to clarify that the existence of pending litigation does not, in itself, extinguish the lawful responsibilities of the Police, except where a court has expressly and finally directed otherwise,” the statement said.

The Force explained that there is currently no final judicial pronouncement declaring the tinted glass permit policy unlawful, nor any subsisting court order permanently restraining the police from carrying out their statutory duties regarding the regulation of tinted vehicle glasses.

“As of today, there is no final judicial pronouncement declaring the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy unlawful,” the police said, adding that the policy remains part of the existing regulatory framework for road safety, crime prevention and national security, subject to judicial authority and oversight.

The police also addressed concerns about enforcement, noting that representations made before the court by its legal counsel were done in good faith and accurately reflected the institution’s position. It added that restraint exercised by the Force pending the determination of the court should not be interpreted as a waiver of its lawful authority.

The statement further clarified that an administrative communication issued on December 15, 2025, was intended to guide internal planning and improve public understanding, stressing that it did not direct immediate enforcement actions or authorise conduct inconsistent with any court process.

On security concerns, the Force emphasised that the regulation of tinted vehicle glasses is a legitimate issue, citing links between the misuse of heavily tinted vehicles and crimes such as kidnapping and armed robbery. It assured that any lawful enforcement would be carried out with professionalism, moderation and strict adherence to human rights standards.

The Inspector-General of Police also reiterated a zero-tolerance stance on extortion, harassment or abuse of authority by officers, warning that any personnel found culpable would face disciplinary action. However, the Force cautioned against generalising isolated cases of misconduct, noting that thousands of officers daily risk their lives to protect citizens and national security.

The police described the Nigerian Bar Association as a valued stakeholder in the justice sector, pledging continued constructive engagement while avoiding public exchanges capable of undermining confidence in law enforcement or the judiciary.

“This statement represents the considered and final institutional position of the Nigeria Police Force on this matter, pending the determination of the court,” the statement said.

Members of the public were urged to remain calm and continue their lawful activities, with the police reaffirming their commitment to protecting lives, property and the stability of the nation.

The statement was signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, and dated December 16, 2025.