The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) announced on Monday that enforcement of its tinted glass permit policy will recommence on 2 January 2026.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Mr. Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed this in a statement, citing a concerning surge in vehicle-related crimes. Mr. Hundeyin stated that the decision “follows a careful review of emerging security concerns and the need to ensure the safety of all citizens”.

While clarifying that no court order has restrained the police from enforcing the relevant law, the Force spokesman explained that authorities had voluntarily suspended enforcement after a court matter in October to allow motorists time to regularise their documents.

“Recent trends, however, reveal a disturbing rise in criminal activities perpetrated with the aid of vehicles fitted with unauthorised tinted glass,” the statement read. “Some individuals and organised criminal groups have exploited this gap to conceal their identities and facilitate crimes ranging from armed robbery to kidnapping.”

He quoted the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, as assuring that enforcement would be conducted professionally, with respect for citizens’ rights, and in accordance with the law. Mr. Hundeyin urged motorists requiring permits to apply through approved channels to ensure compliance.

The police had temporarily suspended the policy’s enforcement in October. Mr. Hundeyin added that this pause was made out of consideration for the public and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

He reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to enforcing all existing laws with fairness, transparency, and respect for citizens’ rights, while maintaining effective collaboration with key stakeholders in the justice system.

The NBA had sued IGP Egbetokun in September over the policy, labelling it illegal. In April 2025, the IGP introduced the policy, instructing the public to apply for annual motor tinted glass permits from the NPF for a stipulated fee, with a dedicated platform launched for processing applications.

During a pre-conference National Executive Council meeting on 23 August 2025, the NBA resolved to challenge the policy’s legality in court. The association described it as a violation of citizens’ rights and raised concerns regarding the validity of the Motor Tinted Glass (Prohibition) Act (Decree 1991), a military-era law underpinning the police action.