The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) says it has not been barred by any court from enforcing the motor vehicle tinted glass permit policy or carrying out its statutory duties.
Benjamin Hundeyin, force public relations officer, in a statement issued on Wednesday, said the clarification followed “recent public discussions” on the policy, including remarks credited to the president of the Nigerian Bar Association.
The police had on Monday announced that enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy would resume on January 2, 2026, citing an increase in vehicle-related crimes.
The NBA subsequently accused the police of disregarding a court order restraining enforcement of the policy.
The statement said the police recognised the value of public engagement in a democracy and deemed it necessary to “provide institutional clarity in a manner that reassures the public, affirms respect for the rule of law, and preserves public order.”
“The Inspector-General of Police has reiterated that the Nigeria Police Force remains unwavering in its respect for the judiciary,” the statement said.
“The Force will comply fully with all valid orders of courts of competent jurisdiction and will not act in any manner that undermines ongoing judicial proceedings.
“At the same time, it is important to clarify that the existence of pending litigation does not, in itself, extinguish the lawful responsibilities of the Police, except where a court has expressly and finally directed otherwise.”
The police said there is “no final judicial pronouncement declaring the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy unlawful.”
It added that there is also “no subsisting order permanently restraining the Nigeria Police Force from performing its statutory duties” on the regulation of tinted vehicle glasses.
According to the statement, the policy remains within the existing framework for road safety, crime prevention, and national security, while remaining subject to judicial oversight.
“Representations made before the court by counsel to the Nigeria Police Force were made in good faith and accurately reflected the institutional position of the Force.”
“Pending the determination of the court, the Police has exercised restraint in deference to the primacy of the judicial process.”
“Such restraint should not, however, be misconstrued as a waiver or abandonment of lawful authority, particularly in matters that directly implicate public safety and the protection of lives and property.”
The police said the administrative communication issued on December 15, 2025, was designed to support internal planning and public understanding.
“It did not direct immediate enforcement actions, nor did it authorise conduct inconsistent with any subsisting court process.”
The statement said the control of tinted vehicle glass remains a legitimate security issue, noting links between heavily tinted vehicles and crimes such as kidnapping and armed robbery.
The police assured the public that enforcement, where lawful, would be carried out with “professionalism, moderation, and strict adherence to human rights standards.”
The NPF added that any officer found guilty of extortion, harassment, or abuse of authority would face appropriate disciplinary action.