ABUJA, NIGERIA
The Nigeria Police Force has described the regulation of tinted vehicle glasses as a critical security measure, warning that the misuse of heavily tinted vehicles is increasingly linked to serious crimes, including kidnapping, armed robbery, and other threats to public safety.
In a statement issued recently, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, emphasized that the Police have a duty to address these risks in a manner that is lawful, proportionate, and respectful of citizens’ rights.
Addressing the legal status of the policy, the Force clarified that the existence of pending litigation does not, in itself, nullify the lawful responsibilities of the Police unless a court has expressly directed otherwise. CSP Hundeyin noted that as of today, there is no final judicial pronouncement declaring the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy unlawful, nor is there any subsisting order permanently restraining the Force from performing its statutory duties regarding the regulation.
Consequently, the Police maintained that the policy remains part of the existing regulatory framework for road safety and national security. While acknowledging that the Force has exercised restraint in deference to the judicial process, Hundeyin warned that this restraint should not be misconstrued as a waiver or abandonment of lawful authority, particularly in matters directly implicating public safety.
Clarifying the context of an administrative communication issued on December 15, 2025, the Force stated the memo was intended solely to guide internal planning and enhance public understanding. It was not a directive for immediate enforcement actions, nor did it authorize conduct inconsistent with subsisting court processes. The statement added that operational decisions regarding the timing and mode of enforcement remain within the lawful discretion of the Nigeria Police Force.
Furthermore, the Police assured the public that where enforcement is lawfully undertaken, it will be guided by professionalism and strict adherence to human rights standards.
CSP Hundeyin reaffirmed the Inspector-General of Police’s commitment to a zero-tolerance stance regarding extortion, harassment, or abuse of authority. The Force warned that any officer found engaging in such misconduct would face appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with established procedures.
