The Nigeria Police Force has issued a formal clarification on the status of the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy amid ongoing public debate, stating that the policy remains legally valid and enforceable in the absence of a final court ruling to the contrary.
In a statement addressing recent comments by the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, the Police emphasised the importance of civic engagement in a democracy while noting the need to provide institutional clarity that reassures the public, upholds the rule of law, and preserves public order.
The Force reiterated that it is constitutionally established and statutorily mandated to maintain public safety, prevent crime, and ensure internal security, stressing that all its actions are carried out strictly within the bounds of the law and under civil authority.
According to the Police, the Inspector-General of Police has reaffirmed the Force’s unwavering respect for the judiciary, confirming that it will fully comply with all valid orders of courts of competent jurisdiction and will not take any action capable of undermining ongoing judicial proceedings.
However, the Police clarified that the mere existence of pending litigation does not automatically suspend its lawful responsibilities, except where a court has expressly issued a final directive to that effect. As of now, there is no subsisting court order declaring the tinted glass permit policy unlawful or permanently restraining the Police from carrying out their statutory duties related to the regulation of tinted vehicle glasses.
The Force stated that the policy remains part of Nigeria’s regulatory framework for road safety, crime prevention, and national security, subject at all times to judicial oversight. It added that representations made before the court by its legal counsel were done in good faith and accurately reflected the institution’s position, noting that restraint exercised so far is out of respect for the judicial process, not a waiver of lawful authority.
The Police further explained that an administrative communication issued on December 15, 2025, was meant to guide internal planning and enhance public understanding. It did not authorise immediate enforcement actions nor did it direct conduct that would conflict with any ongoing court process.
Operational decisions regarding enforcement, the statement said, remain within the lawful discretion of the Nigeria Police Force, to be exercised in line with the Constitution and subject to judicial supervision.
Highlighting security concerns, the Police noted that the misuse of heavily tinted vehicles has been linked to serious crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and other threats to public safety, both in Nigeria and globally. As a result, the Force maintains a duty to regulate tinted glass usage in a manner that is lawful, proportionate, and respectful of citizens’ rights.
The Inspector-General of Police also reaffirmed a zero-tolerance stance against extortion, harassment, or abuse of authority by officers, warning that any personnel found guilty of such misconduct will face appropriate disciplinary action in line with established procedures.