The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has reaffirmed the legality and transparency of its nba-sues-igp-over-tinted-glass-permit-questions-legality-transparency/” title=”… sues IGP over tinted-glass permit, questions legality, transparency”>tinted-glass permit policy, following a legal challenge initiated by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) at the Federal High Court. The Force maintains that the policy is firmly grounded in existing laws and regulations.
In a statement released on Wednesday by the Force’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police dismissed the NBA’s claims as “false, misleading, and a deliberate effort to undermine the reputation, integrity, and lawful functions of the Force.”
The NBA contended that the mandatory annual permits for vehicle tinted glass-administered via a digital platform introduced by the NPF-violate constitutional rights and fundamental freedoms. Although the policy was originally set to take effect on June 1, its enforcement date was postponed to October 2.
CSP Hundeyin explained that under Section 2(3a) of the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act, 2004, the Inspector-General of Police or an authorised officer is empowered to issue permits. Additionally, Section 1(2) requires applicants to demonstrate valid reasons, such as medical or security concerns, before approval is granted.
The tinted-glass regulation aims to enhance public safety by aiding efforts to prevent serious crimes, including kidnapping, armed robbery, terrorism, and high-risk “one-chance” criminal acts.
Regarding the fees associated with the permits, the Police clarified that these are strictly “processing fees” intended to support the maintenance of the digital system facilitating the service. This is in accordance with Sections 26(e) and (f) of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, which authorises the Force to charge for specialised services.
Hundeyin also highlighted the effectiveness of the Electronic Central Motor Registry (e-CMR), noting its significant role in recovering numerous stolen vehicles across the country.
“The Force has achieved notable success with the e-CMR system, aligning with international best practices and underscoring the importance of modernised specialised police services,” the statement emphasized.
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun reiterated the Force’s stance, assuring the public that the tinted-glass permit policy is lawful and vital for national security. He further committed the Police to uphold professionalism, transparency, and respect for citizens’ fundamental rights.
