Police Suspend Enforcement Of Tinted Glass Permit Ahead Of Court Hearing

The Nigeria Police Force has temporarily suspended the enforcement of vehicle tinted glass permits, pending a scheduled court hearing. The decision follows concerns raised by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) over the legality of the tinted glass permit policy.

The suspension was announced after a meeting between the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, and a delegation of the NBA led by its President, Afam Osigwe, SAN, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja. The discussion focused on the enforcement of the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act, 1991, and the need for cooperation between the police and legal professionals to uphold the rule of law.

The Force stated that while no court order currently prohibits the enforcement of the Act, the decision to pause was made in the interest of public welfare and out of respect for the NBA. A Motion on Notice challenging the policy is slated for hearing on October 16, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Warri, Delta State.

To enhance collaboration, the Police and the NBA have inaugurated a joint committee aimed at promoting effective coordination between the law enforcement agency and the legal community. The Force has also encouraged vehicle owners to use this period to ensure that their documentation is up to date and compliant with existing regulations regarding tinted glass.

Background Of The Tinted Glass Permit Controversy

The tinted glass permit policy was introduced by the IGP in April 2025, requiring motorists to obtain annual permits from the Nigeria Police Force for a specified fee. A digital platform was launched to facilitate the application process, which the Police said would enhance regulation and road safety.

However, the NBA challenged the policy, describing it as unconstitutional and a violation of citizens’ rights. At its National Executive Council pre-conference meeting in August 2025, the association resolved to take legal action against the policy. Concerns highlighted included the validity of the 1991 Motor Tinted Glass (Prohibition) Act, a law enacted during the military era, which the Police have used to justify the policy.

Earlier in September, the NBA filed a lawsuit against the IGP, arguing that requiring citizens to pay for tinted glass permits under the existing Act is illegal. Legal practitioners maintained that the law has not been updated since it was enacted, and the enforcement of the permit policy could infringe on the rights of vehicle owners.

The Police have reassured the public that the temporary suspension does not undermine their commitment to enforcing all laws fairly and transparently. They also emphasised that ongoing cooperation with stakeholders, including the NBA, is essential for maintaining public trust in law enforcement.

The tinted glass permit issue has sparked widespread debate, with some motorists supporting the temporary suspension and others calling for a permanent review of the law. Analysts have noted that the case raises important questions about the balance between regulation, public interest, and individual rights.

NPF Awaits Formal Court Notice on Tinted Glass Permit Ruling

As the matter awaits hearing in Warri, both the Police and the NBA have signalled readiness to continue dialogue and legal proceedings. The outcome of the October 16 court session will likely determine the future of tinted glass regulation in Nigeria and could set a precedent for similar policies across the country.

In the meantime, vehicle owners are advised to stay informed about the legal status of tinted glass permits and comply with existing regulations. The Police have reiterated their intention to enforce the law once the court provides clear directives, ensuring safety on the roads while respecting citizens’ legal rights.

The case remains a closely watched development, reflecting broader debates about policing, citizen rights, and the use of outdated legislation in modern governance.