Nigeria Police Clarifies Position on Tinted Glass Permit Policy

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has clarified its position on the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy amid ongoing public debate, particularly following a statement credited to the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

In a statement issued on Tuesday, by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, the Force said while it welcomes robust civic engagement as a hallmark of democracy, it considered it necessary to provide institutional clarity to reassure the public, uphold the rule of law, and maintain public order.

The Police emphasised that it is a constitutionally established institution mandated to maintain public safety, prevent crime, and preserve internal security, noting that all its actions are carried out within the confines of the law and under civil authority.

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) reaffirmed the Force’s respect for the judiciary, stressing that the NPF will comply fully with all valid orders of courts of competent jurisdiction and will not take any action capable of undermining ongoing judicial proceedings.

However, the Force clarified that the existence of pending litigation does not automatically suspend its lawful responsibilities, except where a court has expressly and finally ordered otherwise.
According to the Police, there is currently no final judicial pronouncement declaring the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy unlawful, nor is there any subsisting order permanently restraining the NPF from carrying out its statutory duties regarding the regulation of tinted vehicle glasses.

The Force stated that the policy therefore remains part of the existing regulatory framework for road safety, crime prevention, and national security, subject to the supervisory authority of the courts.
It added that representations made before the court by its legal counsel were done in good faith and accurately reflected the institutional position of the Police. While the Force has exercised restraint pending the determination of the court, such restraint, it noted, should not be interpreted as a waiver or abandonment of lawful authority, especially on matters affecting public safety.

The Police also explained that an administrative communication issued on December 15, 2025, was meant to guide internal planning and improve public understanding, adding that it did not authorise immediate enforcement actions or contravene any subsisting court processes.

According to the statement, on enforcement, the NPF said decisions regarding timing and mode remain within its lawful discretion and will be exercised in line with the Constitution and subject to judicial oversight.

The Force reiterated that the regulation of tinted vehicle glasses remains a legitimate security concern, 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 IGP further restated the Force’s zero-tolerance policy on extortion, harassment, or abuse of authority by police personnel, warning that any officer found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary action. The Police cautioned against generalising isolated cases of misconduct to discredit the institution, highlighting the sacrifices of officers who daily risk their lives to protect the nation.
The Nigeria Police Force also described the Nigerian Bar Association as a valued stakeholder in the justice sector and pledged continued constructive engagement based on mutual respect for institutional roles.

The statement concluded by assuring the public that the NPF will continue to act lawfully, responsibly, and independently in the discharge of its constitutional mandate, while fully complying with all valid court orders. Members of the public were urged to remain calm and go about their lawful activities, as the Force remains committed to safeguarding lives, property, and national stability.