The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed claims that the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy has been struck down by the courts, stating that no final judicial ruling has declared the policy unlawful.

In a statement released on Tuesday, December 16, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the clarification was necessary amid widespread public debate and recent remarks by the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

According to the police, the statement was issued to “provide institutional clarity, reassure the public, and reaffirm the Force’s commitment to the rule of law while maintaining public order.”

No Court Order Nullifying Policy

The Police stressed that there is currently no subsisting court judgment or injunction permanently restraining the Force from enforcing regulations relating to tinted vehicle glass.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains a constitutionally established institution with the mandate to protect lives and property, prevent crime, and preserve internal security,” the statement said, adding that the Force operates under civil authority and within the limits of the law.

Quoting the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, the statement reaffirmed the Force’s respect for the judiciary and its willingness to comply with all lawful court orders.

“The Force will not engage in any conduct that undermines ongoing judicial proceedings,” the IGP was quoted as saying.

Pending Litigation Does Not Halt Police Duties

While acknowledging that litigation concerning the tinted glass policy is ongoing, the Police maintained that the existence of a court case does not automatically suspend its statutory responsibilities.

“The mere pendency of litigation does not extinguish the lawful duties of the Police, except where a court has expressly and finally ruled otherwise,” the statement explained.

The Force emphasised that, until such a ruling is made, the tinted glass permit policy remains a valid component of Nigeria’s security and road safety framework.

It added that submissions made by police legal representatives in court accurately reflected the institution’s official position and were presented in good faith.

Although the Police said it has exercised caution while the matter is before the courts, it warned that such restraint should not be interpreted as relinquishing its legal authority.

Internal Memo Misinterpreted

Addressing public concerns over an internal memo dated December 15, 2025, the Police clarified that the communication was strictly for administrative and planning purposes.

“The memo did not authorise immediate enforcement actions or direct any conduct contrary to existing court processes,” the Force stated.

According to the Police, decisions regarding enforcement timelines and methods remain subject to constitutional provisions, judicial oversight, and operational discretion.

Security Concerns Remain

The Police reiterated that regulating tinted vehicle glass remains a legitimate security issue, noting that heavily tinted vehicles have been linked to crimes including kidnapping, armed robbery, and other violent offences.

“Both within Nigeria and globally, the misuse of tinted vehicles has been associated with serious criminal activity,” the statement noted, stressing the Force’s responsibility to address such risks lawfully and proportionately.

The NPF assured Nigerians that any enforcement action would be carried out with professionalism, moderation, and strict respect for human rights.

Zero Tolerance for Misconduct

The Inspector-General of Police also restated the Force’s zero-tolerance policy toward extortion, harassment, and abuse of authority by officers.

“Any personnel found engaging in misconduct will face disciplinary action in line with established procedures,” the statement warned.

However, the Police urged the public not to use isolated cases of misconduct to discredit the entire institution, highlighting the sacrifices of officers who risk their lives daily to safeguard citizens.

Engagement with NBA, Call for Calm

Describing the Nigerian Bar Association as a critical stakeholder in the justice system, the Police pledged continued constructive engagement grounded in mutual respect for institutional boundaries.

The Force said it would avoid public confrontations capable of eroding confidence in either law enforcement or the judiciary.

The statement concluded by urging Nigerians to remain calm and continue their lawful activities, assuring the public of the Police’s commitment to national security and stability.

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“This represents the final institutional position of the Nigeria Police Force on the matter, pending the court’s determination,” the statement said.