The Nigeria Police Force has defended its tinted-glass permit policy, saying it is lawful and backed by existing legislation, following a lawsuit filed by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

The NBA had dragged the Inspector-General of Police before the Federal High Court, describing the policy as unlawful and a violation of fundamental rights. The policy, initially scheduled to take effect on June 1, was later shifted to October 2, requiring motorists to obtain annual permits for tinted glass through a digital platform.

In a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police described the NBA’s claims as “untrue, misleading, and a calculated attempt to tarnish the image, integrity, and lawful operations of the Force.”

Hundeyin explained that Section 23(a) of the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act, 2004, empowers the Inspector-General of Police or any officer he authorises to approve the permits. He added that Section 1(2) of the same Act requires applicants to show good cause such as health or security reasons before approval.

He stressed that the regulation aligns with the Police mandate to prevent crimes, describing the permit as a vital tool in curbing violent offences such as kidnapping, armed robbery, terrorism, and one-chance operations.

On the issue of charges, Hundeyin said the fees attached to permits are strictly “processing fees” meant for maintaining the digital infrastructure. He cited Section 26(e) and (f) of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, which allows the Police to provide specialised services to the public at a fee.

The statement also highlighted the success of the Electronic Central Motor Registry (e-CMR), through which numerous stolen vehicles have been traced and recovered nationwide, describing it as part of efforts to modernise policing in line with global standards.

Reiterating the Force’s position, Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said the tinted-glass permit policy is both legal and necessary. He assured Nigerians that the Police remain committed to transparency, professionalism, and safeguarding the fundamental rights of all citizens while pursuing a safer nation.