The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun, has reaffirmed that the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy of the Nigeria Police Force remains lawful and valid, despite ongoing public debate and pending litigation.
Egbetokun said the Police respect the judiciary and will comply fully with all valid court orders but stressed that no court has issued a final ruling declaring the policy unlawful or permanently restraining the Police from enforcing it.
The IGP clarified that the existence of a pending court case does not automatically strip the Police of their statutory responsibilities unless a court expressly directs otherwise.
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“As of today, there is no final judicial pronouncement declaring the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy unlawful,” the Police said in a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin.
The statement added that the Police have exercised restraint out of respect for the judicial process, but such restraint should not be mistaken for a waiver of lawful authority, especially where public safety is involved.
Hundeyin said the Force was responding to recent public comments, including a statement by the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), stressing that civic engagement is welcome but clarity is necessary to prevent misinformation and public anxiety.
“The Nigeria Police Force operates within the Constitution and under civil authority,” the statement said, adding that the tinted glass policy remains part of the existing regulatory framework for road safety, crime prevention, and national security, subject to court oversight.
No immediate enforcement directive
The Police clarified that an administrative communication issued on December 15, 2025, was meant to guide internal planning and inform the public, not to trigger immediate enforcement or override any ongoing court process.
Operational decisions on enforcement timing and methods, the Force said, remain within its lawful discretion and subject to judicial supervision.
The Police maintained that the regulation of tinted vehicle glasses remains a legitimate security issue, noting that heavily tinted vehicles have been linked to crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and other threats to public safety.
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Where enforcement occurs, the Force said it will act with professionalism, moderation, and strict respect for human rights.
Egbetokun reiterated the Police’s zero-tolerance stance on extortion, harassment, or abuse of power, warning that any officer found guilty of misconduct will face disciplinary action.
However, the Force cautioned against generalising isolated incidents to discredit the institution, noting that thousands of officers risk their lives daily to protect citizens.
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The Nigeria Police Force described the NBA as a valued stakeholder and pledged continued engagement rooted in mutual respect, while avoiding public exchanges that could undermine confidence in law enforcement or the judiciary.
“This statement represents the final institutional position of the Nigeria Police Force on this matter, pending the determination of the court,” Hundeyin said.
Members of the public were urged to remain calm and continue their lawful activities, as the Police reaffirmed their commitment to protecting lives, property, and national stability.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
