Tinted Glass Permit: Police Bow to Pressure, Suspend Enforcement

The Nigeria Police Force has temporarily suspended the enforcement of the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act, 1991, following rising public concern and a pending case before the Federal High Court in Warri, Delta State.

The Force said the decision was taken in the interest of justice, respect for due process, and in response to appeals from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), which had drawn attention to alleged abuse and extortion by security operatives enforcing the policy

The development stems from Suit No. FHC/WR/CS/103/2025, filed by a legal practitioner, John Aikpokpo-Martins, challenging the legality of the police enforcement of tinted glass regulations, particularly on vehicles with factory-fitted tints.

The case, presided over by Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the Federal High Court, Warri, has been adjourned to October 16, 2025, for hearing.

Although no injunction was issued against the police, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, directed the suspension of enforcement nationwide, pending the outcome of the matter.

Confirming the directive, the National Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the Force opted to suspend enforcement out of respect for the judicial process and public interest.

Hundeyin emphasized that the suspension did not amount to the cancellation of the law, but a temporary measure to prevent conflict with the ongoing court case.

“The Nigeria Police Force has decided to maintain the status quo pending the determination of the motion on notice scheduled for October 16, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Warri,” Hundeyin said.

He cautioned officers against flouting the order and warned that any officer found harassing motorists under the guise of tinted glass enforcement would face disciplinary action.

The Nigerian Bar Association, led by its President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), had earlier met with the IGP, urging him to halt the enforcement exercise following widespread reports of harassment and extortion by police officers.

Osigwe commended the IGP for his sensitivity and professionalism, describing the decision as “a victory for the rule of law.”

“This step by the police demonstrates a willingness to balance law enforcement with citizens’ rights.”