The Federal High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State, on Friday ordered the Nigeria Police Force and the Inspector-General of Police to suspend the enforcement of tinted glass permit requirements for vehicle owners.
The court directed both the IGP and the Police to maintain the status quo and “respect judicial processes pending further proceedings in the matter.”
The interim order was issued at the commencement of hearing in Suit No. FHC/WR/CS/103/2025, filed by legal practitioner John Aikpokpo-Martins against the Nigeria Police Force and the Inspector-General of Police.
Aikpokpo-Martins is challenging the legality of the renewed enforcement of tinted glass permits, arguing that the policy is unconstitutional and burdensome to law-abiding motorists.
Presiding over the matter, the court emphasized that police authorities must refrain from enforcing the permit policy while the case is being heard, stating that law enforcement must “respect judicial processes” in the interim.
Confirming the court’s decision, Kunle Edun, SAN, who leads the petitioner’s legal team, told journalists that the directive marks a significant step in safeguarding the rule of law. “It ensures that citizens are not subjected to unlawful enforcement actions while the court determines the constitutionality of the policy,” he said.
In April 2025, the Nigeria Police Force announced the resumption of tinted glass permit issuance nationwide under the Police Specialised Services Automation Project, after suspending the program in 2022. The announcement triggered widespread public backlash, with many motorists citing incidents of harassment, extortion at checkpoints, and the impracticality of requiring permits for factory-fitted tinted windows.
Initially, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, set a compliance deadline of August 12, which was later extended to October 2.
The Police defended the policy by referencing the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act of 1991, claiming it was necessary for national security. However, civil rights groups and legal experts have criticized the measure, labeling it unconstitutional and exploitative.
Despite ongoing legal challenges, the Delta State Police Command announced last Tuesday that it would begin full enforcement of tinted glass regulations across the state starting Thursday, October 2, 2025, in line with federal directives.
In a statement, the Command assured the public that the operation would be conducted “with professionalism, respect for constitutional rights, and zero tolerance for abuse.” It also reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing existing bans on unauthorized use of sirens, strobe lights, and the defacing or covering of number plates by private individuals and non-entitled officials.
Motorists were advised to carry all necessary documents, including a valid driver’s licence, insurance papers, and proof of vehicle ownership, and to cooperate with officers during lawful stop-and-search operations.
