The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has firmly rejected claims from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) that its tinted-glass permit policy is unconstitutional.
In a statement issued today in Abuja, the Force reaffirmed that the policy is rooted in law and aligns with the broader mandate of safeguarding citizens.
Police: Law Supports Tinted-Glass Permits
CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the spokesperson for the NPF, stated that Section 2(3a) of the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act, 2004, empowers the Inspector-General of Police—or an authorised delegate—to grant permits for vehicle window tinting.
Approved Reasons: Health and Security
He added that Section 1(2) of the same Act requires applicants to demonstrate valid reasons—such as medical needs or personal security—before a permit can be issued.
Crime-Prevention Tool, Not Loophole
The Force argued that the tinted-glass permit isn’t arbitrary regulation—it’s a security tool. It helps law enforcement prevent violent crimes like kidnapping, armed robbery, terrorism, and “one-chance” operations.
Processing Fees: Digital Infrastructure, Not Profit
Hundeyin clarified that the fees charged are purely processing charges to sustain the digital infrastructure behind the service. The fees, he noted, are authorised under Sections 26(e) and 26(f) of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, which permits the Police to provide specialised services to the public for a fee.
e-CMR Success: Tracking Stolen Cars
The statement also highlighted the success of the Electronic Central Motor Registry (e-CMR), which has significantly aided in tracing and recovering stolen vehicles—reinforcing the value of the specialised, fee-backed service.
NBA’s Challenge vs Police’s Defense
While the NBA contends the policy is unconstitutional and shrouded in opacity, the Police labelled such claims as “misleading” and detrimental to their integrity.
The statement characterised the lawsuit as an attempt to undermine the Force’s lawful operations.
Rule of Law, Accountability—and Cameras
IGP Kayode Egbetokun reiterated the Police Force’s unwavering commitment to professionalism, legal standards, and the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights.
