Following a meeting between the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, and a delegation from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), led by its President, Afam Osigwe, SAN, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) announced a temporary suspension of the enforcement of the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act, 1991.
The conference, which took place at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, was centered on the ongoing discussion about the tinted window law’s implementation and the worries expressed by drivers and attorneys about the alleged abuse of the rule by law enforcement.
The Police explained in a statement signed by CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, Force Public Relations Officer, that although no court has officially ordered the Force to stop enforcing the law, it has decided to do so in good faith and in the public interest while awaiting a Federal High Court hearing in Warri, Delta State, on October 16, 2025.
The IGP stressed in the statement that the decision was intended to show openness, equity, and respect for the rule of law while also enhancing cooperation with the legal community.
“The Nigeria Police Force has temporarily suspended the enforcement of the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act, 1991, pending the outcome of the hearing of the Motion on Notice, out of respect for the Nigerian Bar Association and consideration for the interests of Nigerians,” the statement said.
Both sides reportedly held “robust deliberations” during the meeting on boosting public trust and guaranteeing the legal enforcement of current security and traffic regulations.
A joint Police–NBA committee has been established to strengthen collaboration between the police and the legal community. It will act as a platform for communication on matters of shared interest, especially in the areas of law enforcement and the defense of citizens’ rights.
In the meantime, the Force has counseled drivers and car owners to make use of the suspension period to regularize their vehicle documents and guarantee adherence to Nigerian laws regarding the use of tinted or shaded glasses.
IGP Egbetokun assured the public that no Nigerian will be unjustly singled out or subjected to harassment under the pretense of implementing the tinted glass law, reaffirming the Force’s dedication to applying current laws in a fair and transparent manner.
“In collaboration with key stakeholders, we continue to prioritize upholding justice, preserving law and order, and respecting citizens’ rights,” the IGP said.
In Nigeria, the topic of tinted glass permits has long been contentious, with many drivers accusing certain police officials of arbitrary arrests and extortion.
It is anticipated that the current discussions between the NBA and the NPF will open the door to a more controlled and rights-abiding policing strategy.
