Despite widespread public opposition to the tinted glass permit policy, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has announced plans to resume enforcement, citing rising security concerns and the need to protect lives and property across the country.
The decision has reignited controversy around the policy, which many Nigerians believe is driven more by revenue considerations than public safety.
Critics argue that the enforcement is geared towards generate billions of naira annually for the Police, a claim the Force has consistently downplayed.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police clarified that no court order has ever restrained it from enforcing the law regulating the use of tinted glass on vehicles.
According to the statement, enforcement was previously suspended in the interest of transparency and public convenience, to allow motorists adequate time to regularise their documents and complete the required registration process without undue pressure.
The Police said recent security assessments revealed a disturbing increase in criminal activities involving vehicles fitted with unauthorised tinted glass.
Such vehicles, the Force noted, have been exploited by criminal elements to conceal their identities while carrying out crimes including armed robbery, kidnapping, and other violent offences.
“In view of these developments, the Nigeria Police Force has found it both necessary and urgent to resume full enforcement of the Tinted Glass Permit as a proactive step to safeguard our communities,” the statement said.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, assured Nigerians that the renewed enforcement would be carried out professionally, with respect for citizens’ rights and in strict compliance with extant laws.
He reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to public safety, the rule of law, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to strengthen national security.
Motorists who require tinted glass permits were urged to apply through approved channels and ensure their vehicles comply fully with legal requirements ahead of the enforcement.
However, the announcement has drawn sharp reactions from Nigerians, many of whom questioned the sincerity of the Police and described the policy as economically motivated.
Eze Udele urged the Police to suspend enforcement until the courts make a final pronouncement on the matter. “If the court eventually declares it illegal, will the Police refund those who have paid? That is why enforcement should wait until the determination of the case,” he said.
Scorch argued that there is little evidence linking major criminal activities to tinted glass vehicles.
“Most bandits and kidnappers are seen operating in military-style vehicles. This tinted permit has become another avenue for extortion, especially during the festive season,” he said.
Nemesis maintained that possession of a tinted glass permit is unnecessary, noting that security checks can still be conducted regardless of window tint. “Once a vehicle is stopped, the Police can carry out their searches without demanding a permit,” he said.
Samuel Onemu suggested a simpler alternative, proposing that motorists be required to wind down tinted windows at checkpoints. “Why should I pay annually for tinted glass as if it’s on rent?” he asked.
Mesiri A. Abraham also dismissed the policy as ineffective, arguing that criminals would simply obtain the permits and continue their activities undeterred.
Chinomso Njorteach urged the Police to focus on more pressing security challenges. “There are persistent kidnappings, ‘one-chance’ attacks and thuggery in our cities. These deserve more attention than the tinted permit issue,” he said.
Similarly, Henry C. Ariwaodo suggested that the resources devoted to enforcing the policy would be better invested in round-the-clock surveillance. “If this energy were channelled into CCTV installation and area monitoring, it would yield better results in addressing Nigeria’s security problems,” he said.
As enforcement resumes, public debate over the effectiveness, legality and intent of the tinted glass permit policy continues to intensify.
