Abuja — The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has suspended the enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy nationwide, following public outcry and a pending court case challenging the legality of the regulation.
The announcement, made by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, stated that the decision was directed by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to allow for a comprehensive review of the policy and to address widespread concerns raised by motorists and stakeholders.
Adejobi explained that while the enforcement has been suspended, the law prohibiting the unauthorized use of tinted vehicle glass remains in force until further notice.
“The suspension is a temporary measure to prevent undue harassment of motorists and ensure transparency in the process of obtaining permits,” he said.
Public Reaction
The move has been widely welcomed by motorists across the country, many describing it as a relief from extortion and a step toward restoring public trust in the police.
Several drivers alleged that officials in charge of the tinted glass registration and approval process demanded between ₦40, 000 and ₦50,000 from applicants to obtain the permit — a process originally meant to be free.
A commercial driver in Abuja, Mr. John Okoro, said the suspension is “a good step by the police,” adding that many drivers had abandoned the process due to the high cost and corruption.
“They were collecting up to ₦50,000 just to issue a tinted glass permit. It was frustrating. We are happy the Inspector General of Police has listened to the people,” Okoro said.
Drivers Call for Oversight
Some motorists also appealed to the Inspector General of Police to closely monitor officers responsible for tinted glass registration to ensure transparency when the process eventually resumes.
“We thank the IG for suspending the enforcement, but he should also keep an eye on those handling the registration. They should stop exploiting drivers,” said another motorist, Mrs. Chinyere Nwosu, in Lagos.
Background
The tinted glass permit was introduced to regulate vehicles with darkened windows, which security agencies said were often used by criminals to conceal their identities. However, the policy has long faced criticism over alleged abuse, extortion, and arbitrary enforcement.
Following pressure from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and civil rights groups, the Police leadership opted to suspend enforcement while a suit at the Federal High Court, Warri, is being heard.
The Police have urged motorists to use the suspension period to regularise their vehicle documentation and comply with other traffic and safety regulations.
