The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has suspended the nationwide enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy, a move that comes just as the planned enforcement date approached. The police say they paused enforcement in compliance with an interim court order restraining the Force from proceeding until the case is heard or the order is vacated.
The development follows weeks of public debate, legal objections, and growing concerns from motorists who feared harassment, extortion, and confusion around how the permit would work in practice. The suspension means that, for now, the Police will not proceed with enforcing the tinted glass permit nationwide—pending a court decision scheduled for later in January.
In this report, we break down what happened, why the police suspended enforcement, what the court order says, and what Nigerians should know next.
What the Police Announced
According to the Police, they received an interim court order in a case identified as Suit No. HOR/FHR/M/31/2025, issued on December 17, 2025, restraining the Force from enforcing the tinted glass permit policy pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit (or until the order is set aside).
In response, the Police said they:
- entered appearance in the matter,
- raised preliminary objections, and
- filed an application seeking to vacate (set aside) the interim order. Channels Television+1
The matter has been adjourned to January 20, 2026 for further proceedings.
Most importantly, the Force confirmed that it has now placed the planned enforcement on hold nationwide “strictly in compliance” with the court order.
Background: Why Tinted Glass Permit Enforcement Became a Hot Topic
The tinted glass permit issue has sparked public debate for years, but it intensified again after the Police announced in mid-December 2025 that enforcement would resume from January 2, 2026, citing security concerns and vehicle-related crimes.
Many Nigerians understand the security argument: authorities often link fully tinted vehicles to concealment and some criminal activity. But motorists and rights advocates have also raised concerns that enforcement can become a tool for:
- inconsistent checks,
- harassment at checkpoints,
- arbitrary penalties, and
- extortion.
This tension—security vs. civil protection—is part of why legal challenges and public criticism followed soon after the enforcement announcement.
The Court Case: What It Means
The interim order does not permanently cancel the policy; instead, it temporarily restrains enforcement until the court hears the matter or changes the order.
Here’s what this means in simple terms:
What changes right now?
- The Police should not enforce the tinted glass permit policy nationwide while the order stands.
What should motorists expect?
- Reduced likelihood of being stopped specifically for tinted glass permits during this pause.
- However, motorists must still comply with other traffic and security checks because the pause applies to this specific enforcement action, not general policing.
What happens next?
- The court will continue proceedings on January 20, 2026.
- The Police may succeed in vacating the order, or the court may maintain it, depending on the case.
Why the Police Say They Paused Enforcement
The NPF framed the suspension as a decision rooted in:
- respect for judicial authority, and
- adherence to constitutional obligations.
This aligns with standard practice: when a court issues an interim order restraining an action, agencies typically comply while challenging it in court if they disagree.
Public Reactions: Relief, Skepticism, and Calls for Clarity
Reactions have been mixed across Nigeria. Many motorists welcomed the suspension, saying it reduces fear of sudden checkpoint enforcement and potential misuse.
At the same time, several commentators have asked the Police to provide clearer guidance on:
- who qualifies for permits,
- how permits are issued,
- how officers verify permits,
- what penalties apply, and
- how the public can report abuse.
Previous cycles of enforcement and suspension have also fueled skepticism, with some Nigerians arguing that any return of enforcement must be accompanied by transparent rules and accountability. (Some outlets have noted the policy has been suspended before.)
What Nigerians Should Do Now
While enforcement is on hold, motorists can still take smart steps:
- Stay updated from official channels
Watch NPF updates and credible news outlets for any changes after the January 20 court date. - Keep valid vehicle documents
Even if tinted glass enforcement is paused, general vehicle checks can still happen. - Avoid confrontations at checkpoints
If an officer insists on an issue related to the suspended enforcement, stay calm and document details respectfully. - Follow the court timeline
The legal process will likely determine whether the policy returns, and under what conditions.
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