Legal Grounds For Tinted-Glass Permit Policy, Police Affirm

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has acknowledged awareness of a report published in a national newspaper, which claims that the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has filed a lawsuit against the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, over the Tinted-Glass permit policy. In a statement issued on Wednesday, Force Spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin emphasized the need to clarify certain points to prevent misinformation regarding the legality of tinted glass permits.

Hundeyin explained that Section 2(3a) of the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act, 2004 authorizes the Inspector-General of Police or any designated official to approve permits for tinted windows. He further highlighted that Section 1(2) of the same Act mandates that applicants must provide valid justification for the use of tinted glass, citing health or security concerns as acceptable reasons.

He stressed that this regulation aligns with the Police’s core mission to prevent crime, as the permit system is vital for addressing security challenges like kidnapping, armed robbery, terrorism, and other forms of violent crime. Hundeyin also clarified that the fees associated with obtaining a permit are solely for processing and maintaining the digital infrastructure necessary to support this service, in accordance with Section 26(e) and (f) of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, which permits the Police to charge fees for specialized public services.

The Police Force spokesperson further noted the success of the Electronic Central Motor Registry (e-CMR), which has played a pivotal role in recovering stolen vehicles nationwide, demonstrating the effectiveness of modernized police services aligned with international standards.

The Nigeria Police Force strongly rejected claims from certain individuals and groups that the tinted permit policy is unlawful, opaque, or unconstitutional. These accusations were described as baseless and aimed at undermining the Force’s credibility and operations. IGP Kayode Egbetokun reaffirmed the Police’s unwavering commitment to upholding the law and protecting the rights of Nigerians, assuring the public that the Force remains dedicated to professionalism, transparency, and the pursuit of a safer nation.