Nigeria Police Clarify Position on Tinted Glass Permit Policy Amid Public Debate

Nigeria Police Clarify Position on Tinted Glass Permit Policy Amid Public Debate

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a detailed clarification on the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy, reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law, public safety, and respect for judicial authority amid ongoing public discussions and legal scrutiny.

In a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police said it was responding to recent public commentary, including remarks attributed to the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), stressing the need for institutional clarity and public reassurance.

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The Police emphasised that it is constitutionally established and statutorily mandated to maintain public safety, prevent crime, and preserve internal security, operating strictly within the confines of the law and under civil authority. The Inspector-General of Police, according to the statement, has reiterated the Force’s unwavering respect for the judiciary and its readiness to comply fully with all valid court orders.

However, the Force clarified that the existence of pending litigation does not automatically nullify its lawful responsibilities unless a court expressly and finally directs otherwise. As of now, the Police noted, there is no final judicial pronouncement declaring the tinted glass permit policy unlawful, nor is there any subsisting order permanently restraining the Force from regulating the use of tinted vehicle glasses.

“The policy therefore remains part of the existing regulatory framework for road safety, crime prevention, and national security,” the statement said, adding that any enforcement would remain subject to judicial oversight.

Addressing concerns over recent internal communications, the Police explained that an administrative notice issued on 15 December 2025 was meant solely to guide internal planning and improve public understanding. It did not authorise immediate enforcement actions or any conduct inconsistent with ongoing court processes.

The Force also underscored that regulation of tinted vehicle glasses remains a legitimate security concern, noting that both in Nigeria and globally, the misuse of heavily tinted vehicles has been linked to serious crimes such as kidnapping and armed robbery. Any lawful enforcement, it assured, would be carried out with professionalism, moderation, and strict adherence to human rights standards.

Reaffirming its zero-tolerance stance on misconduct, the Police warned that extortion, harassment, or abuse of authority by officers would attract disciplinary action. It cautioned against generalising isolated incidents of misconduct to the entire institution, highlighting the daily sacrifices of officers who risk their lives to protect citizens.

The NPF also acknowledged the NBA as a valued stakeholder in the justice sector and expressed its readiness for constructive engagement grounded in mutual respect for institutional roles.

Concluding the statement, the Police urged members of the public to remain calm and continue their lawful activities, stressing that public safety is a shared responsibility. The Force reaffirmed its resolve to act lawfully, independently, and responsibly while awaiting the court’s determination on the matter.

Nigeria Police Clarify Position on Tinted Glass Permit Policy Amid Public Debate