Court Orders Police to Suspend Enforcement of Tinted Glass Permit

The Federal High Court in Warri, Delta State, has directed the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to suspend the ongoing enforcement of tinted glass permits for motorists across the country.

The interim order, issued on Friday, mandates the police authorities to “maintain the status quo and respect judicial processes pending further proceedings in the matter.”

The directive was given in Suit No. FHC/WR/CS/103/2025, filed by legal practitioner John Aikpokpo-Martins against the Inspector-General of Police and the Nigeria Police Force, challenging the legality and constitutionality of the renewed enforcement.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Kunle Edun, SAN, who led the petitioner’s legal team, described the ruling as “a major step toward upholding the rule of law while the substantive issues in the case are being determined.”

Background to the Case

In April 2025, the Nigeria Police Force resumed the issuance of tinted glass permits nationwide through the Police Specialised Services Automation Project (POSSAP), after suspending the system in 2022.

The move immediately sparked widespread public backlash, with motorists decrying cases of harassment, extortion, and arbitrary arrests at police checkpoints. Many also questioned the fairness of requiring permits for factory-fitted tinted windows, which are standard in most modern vehicles.

Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun had initially set an August 12 deadline for compliance, later extending it to October 2, citing the need for better coordination and awareness.

The police defended the enforcement, referencing the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act of 1991 and citing national security concerns. However, civil rights advocates and legal experts argued that the policy is unconstitutional, discriminatory, and prone to abuse.

Delta Command’s Earlier Announcement

Just days before the court ruling, the Delta State Police Command had announced plans to begin full enforcement of tinted glass regulations on October 2, 2025, in line with federal directives.

The Command stated that the operation would be carried out with “professionalism, respect for constitutional rights, and zero tolerance for abuse.”

It also reiterated a commitment to enforce other vehicular laws, including the ban on unauthorised use of sirens, strobe lights, and the obstruction of number plates by non-entitled individuals.

Drivers were further advised to carry essential documents such as valid driver’s licences, insurance papers, and proof of ownership during police checks.

With the new interim order in place, the Police Force is now expected to halt enforcement pending the resolution of the suit filed by Aikpokpo-Martins. The case is expected to test the legality of tinted glass permit enforcement and its implications for citizens’ rights and law enforcement practices in Nigeria.

PUNCH