The Nigeria Police Force has said there is no final court judgment declaring the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy unlawful, insisting that the policy remains part of the country’s existing security and road safety framework.
The Force stated this in a press release issued on Tuesday, December 16, by the Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, amid growing public debate and comments by the President of the Nigerian Bar Association on the policy.
According to the police, the clarification became necessary “to provide institutional clarity in a manner that reassures the public, affirms respect for the rule of law, and preserves public order.”
The statement stressed that the Nigeria Police Force is constitutionally established and statutorily mandated to maintain public safety, prevent crime and preserve internal security.
“The Nigeria Police Force operates strictly within the confines of the law and under the supervision of civil authority,” the statement noted.
Quoting the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, the Force reaffirmed its respect for the judiciary, saying it would comply fully with all valid orders of courts of competent jurisdiction.
“The Force will not act in any manner that undermines ongoing judicial proceedings,” the IGP was quoted as saying.
Pending Litigation Not A Bar To Police Duties
While acknowledging the existence of pending litigation on the tinted glass policy, the Police maintained that such legal action does not automatically strip the Force of its lawful responsibilities.
“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 statement read.
The Force emphasised that, as of now, “there is no final judicial pronouncement declaring the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy unlawful, nor is there any subsisting order permanently restraining the Nigeria Police Force from performing its statutory duties” on the matter.
The Police said the tinted glass permit policy therefore remains valid, describing it as part of the regulatory framework for road safety, crime prevention and national security, subject to the authority of the courts.
The statement added that representations made by police counsel before the court were done in good faith and accurately reflected the Force’s institutional position.
It noted that the Police had exercised restraint pending the court’s determination, but warned that such restraint should not be mistaken for a surrender of lawful authority.
“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,” Hundeyin noted.
Internal Memo Not For Immediate Enforcement
Addressing concerns over an administrative communication issued on December 15, 2025, the Police clarified that the memo was meant to guide internal planning and improve public understanding.
“It did not direct immediate enforcement actions, nor did it authorise conduct inconsistent with any subsisting court process,” the statement explained.
The Force added that decisions on enforcement timing and mode remain within its lawful discretion, subject to constitutional provisions and judicial oversight.
The Police maintained that the regulation of tinted vehicle glasses remains a legitimate security concern, noting that the misuse of heavily tinted vehicles has been linked to crimes such as kidnapping and armed robbery.
“Both globally and within Nigeria, the misuse of heavily tinted vehicles has been associated with serious crimes,” the statement said, adding that the Force has a duty to address such risks in a lawful and proportionate manner.
It assured the public that any lawful enforcement would be guided by professionalism, moderation and strict adherence to human rights standards.
Zero Tolerance For Extortion, Harassment
The Inspector-General of Police also reiterated the Force’s zero-tolerance stance on extortion, harassment and abuse of authority by officers.
“Any officer found to have engaged in such conduct will be subjected to appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with established procedures,” the statement warned.
However, the Police cautioned against generalising isolated cases of misconduct to discredit the institution, urging recognition of officers who risk their lives daily to protect citizens and national security.
The Force described the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) as a valued stakeholder in the justice sector and pledged continued constructive engagement based on mutual respect for institutional roles.
It added that it would refrain from public exchanges capable of undermining trust in law enforcement or the judiciary.
The Police concluded by urging members of the public to remain calm and go about their lawful activities, assuring Nigerians of its continued commitment to protecting lives, property and national stability.
“This statement represents the considered and final institutional position of the Nigeria Police Force on this matter, pending the determination of the court,” it said.