Court Has Not Stopped Us — IGP Vows Full Enforcement Of Tinted Glass Permit Rules

The Nigeria Police Force has clarified that there is no final court ruling declaring the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy unlawful, stressing that the policy remains part of Nigeria’s existing security and road safety regulations.

This clarification was contained in a press statement issued on Tuesday, December 16, by the Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin. The statement comes amid heightened public discourse and comments by the President of the Nigerian Bar Association regarding the policy.

According to the Police, the clarification was necessary to provide institutional clarity, reassure the public, uphold the rule of law, and maintain public order.

The Force reaffirmed that it is constitutionally and statutorily empowered to ensure public safety, prevent crime, and safeguard internal security, noting that it operates strictly within the law and under civil authority.

Quoting the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, the statement emphasized the Force’s respect for the judiciary and its commitment to fully complying with all valid court orders.

“The Nigeria Police Force will not take any action capable of undermining ongoing judicial proceedings,” the IGP stated.

Pending Litigation Does Not Suspend Police Authority

While acknowledging ongoing legal challenges to the tinted glass policy, the Police maintained that pending litigation does not automatically invalidate the Force’s lawful duties unless a court expressly and finally rules otherwise.

“It is important to note that the mere existence of pending litigation does not extinguish the lawful responsibilities of the Police,” the statement said.

The Force stressed that there is currently no final judicial decision declaring the policy illegal, nor is there any standing order permanently restraining the Police from carrying out their statutory responsibilities regarding tinted vehicle glasses.

As such, the policy remains valid and enforceable as part of Nigeria’s framework for road safety, crime prevention, and national security, subject to judicial authority.

The Police further explained that submissions made by its legal representatives in court were in good faith and accurately reflected the institution’s position.

Although the Force has exercised restraint pending the court’s final decision, it warned that such restraint should not be interpreted as a relinquishment of lawful authority, especially in matters affecting public safety and the protection of lives and property.

Internal Memo Not an Enforcement Directive

Addressing concerns about an internal memo dated December 15, 2025, the Police clarified that the communication was intended solely for internal planning and public sensitization.

It did not authorize immediate enforcement actions or any conduct contrary to existing court processes, the statement noted.

The Force added that decisions regarding the timing and manner of enforcement remain within its lawful discretion, subject to constitutional safeguards and judicial oversight.

The Police reiterated that the regulation of tinted vehicle glasses is a legitimate security concern, pointing out that heavily tinted vehicles have been linked to crimes such as kidnapping and armed robbery both in Nigeria and globally.

The statement assured Nigerians that any enforcement would be carried out lawfully, professionally, and with strict respect for human rights.

Zero Tolerance for Misconduct

The Inspector-General of Police restated the Force’s zero-tolerance policy toward extortion, harassment, and abuse of authority by officers, warning that any personnel found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary action.

However, the Police cautioned against using isolated incidents of misconduct to unfairly discredit the entire institution, urging recognition of officers who daily risk their lives to protect citizens and national security.

The Force described the Nigerian Bar Association as an important stakeholder in the justice system and pledged continued constructive engagement rooted in mutual respect for institutional roles.

It also committed to avoiding public exchanges that could erode confidence in law enforcement or the judiciary.

The Police concluded by urging citizens to remain calm and continue their lawful activities, assuring Nigerians of its unwavering commitment to protecting lives, property, and national stability.

“This statement reflects the considered and final institutional position of the Nigeria Police Force on this matter, pending the court’s determination,” it said.