The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has clarified that the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy remains in force, despite ongoing public debates and pending litigation surrounding its legality.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Force spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police said there is currently no final court judgement declaring the policy unlawful or restraining the Force from carrying out its statutory duties relating to the regulation of tinted vehicle glasses.
The clarification followed recent public comments, including a statement by the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), which sparked widespread discussions on the policy.
The Police emphasised that while it respects robust civic engagement in a democratic society, it was necessary to provide institutional clarity to reassure the public, uphold the rule of law, and maintain public order.
According to the statement, the Nigeria Police Force operates under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and is legally mandated to maintain public safety, prevent crime, and preserve internal security, all under civil authority and within the confines of the law.
The Inspector-General of Police, the statement noted, has reaffirmed the Force’s unwavering respect for the judiciary and its commitment to fully comply with all valid court orders.
However, the Police stressed that the mere existence of pending litigation does not automatically suspend its lawful responsibilities unless expressly directed by a court.
“As of today, there is no final judicial pronouncement declaring the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy unlawful, nor any subsisting order permanently restraining the Nigeria Police Force from enforcing it,” the statement said.
The Police explained that the policy remains part of the country’s regulatory framework for road safety, crime prevention, and national security, noting that the misuse of heavily tinted vehicles has been linked to serious crimes such as kidnapping and armed robbery.
While acknowledging that representations made before the courts were done in good faith, the Force said it has exercised restraint pending judicial determination, out of respect for the judicial process.
It, however, cautioned that such restraint should not be interpreted as a waiver of its lawful authority.
The statement further clarified that an administrative communication issued on 15 December 2025 was meant to guide internal planning and improve public understanding and did not authorize immediate enforcement or actions inconsistent with any ongoing court process.
The Police assured Nigerians that any lawful enforcement of the policy would be carried out with professionalism, moderation, and strict adherence to human rights standards.
It 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.
While condemning misconduct, the Force cautioned against generalizing isolated cases to discredit the institution, noting that thousands of police officers risk their lives daily to protect citizens and national security.
The Nigeria Police Force also described the NBA as a valued stakeholder in the justice sector and pledged continued constructive engagement based on mutual respect for institutional roles.
The Force urged members of the public to remain calm and go about their lawful activities, reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives, property, and the stability of the nation, pending the final determination of the court on the matter.
