The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a statement defending its policy on tinted vehicle glass permits following a lawsuit filed by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
The police stated that the policy is legally sound and a crucial tool for crime prevention.
In a press release on Wednesday, September 10, and signed by Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, the police addressed a recent Punch Newspaper article reporting the NBA’s legal action against the Inspector-General of Police.
The police force maintains that its authority to issue these permits is explicitly provided under the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act, 2004.
The police said according to Section 2(3a) of the Act, the Inspector-General of Police or an authorised representative can grant these permits.
The police clarified that the permits are not issued without cause.
According to the police, the applicants must demonstrate a valid reason, such as health or security concerns, as stipulated in Section 1(2) of the same Act.
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The police emphasised that the policy is essential for combating various violent crimes, including kidnapping, armed robbery, and terrorism, as it helps officers identify and monitor vehicles used in criminal activities.
Furthermore, the police addressed the fees associated with the permits, stating they are solely for processing and the maintenance of the digital infrastructure used for the service.
The police cited Section 26(e) and (f) of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, as the legal basis for charging fees for specialised services.
The police also highlighted the success of the Electronic Central Motor Registry (e-CMR) in recovering stolen vehicles, a service facilitated by this modern system.
The police dismissed claims that the policy is illegal or non-transparent as “untrue and misleading,” characterising them as attempts to damage the NPF’s reputation.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, reiterated the force’s dedication to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all Nigerians, while also ensuring transparency and professionalism.
