Interim ruling halts policy rollout nationwide pending legal resolution
The Nigeria Police Force has temporarily suspended the enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy, following an interim court order restraining the implementation. The suspension comes just days before the policy was scheduled to resume nationwide on January 2, 2026.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Police said the decision was taken in full compliance with the court directive while legal proceedings continue.
Background of the policy and suspension
The Police had originally announced on December 15, 2025, that the tinted glass permit policy would resume from January 2, 2026, as part of efforts to enhance public safety and internal security.
However, the Force was served with an interim court order (Suit No. HOR/FHR/M/31/2025) on December 17, 2025, which restrains enforcement pending the hearing and determination of the substantive case or the lifting of the order.
The Police confirmed that it has filed preliminary objections, entered an appearance in court, and applied for the interim order to be vacated. The case has been adjourned to January 20, 2026.
Inspector-General’s stance
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to the rule of law, stating that officers will continue to protect lives and property while awaiting the court’s final ruling.
Legal challenges and opposition
The tinted glass permit policy, first introduced in April 2025, has faced sustained legal challenges and public opposition.
Critics, led by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), have argued that the policy is illegal and unconstitutional, claiming the Police lack authority to impose fees on motorists. The NBA warned that enforcement could lead to extortion and harassment on Nigerian roads.
The NBA’s legal challenge, initially filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, was later heard at the High Court of Justice in Orerokpe, Delta State, where the interim order was issued.
Why it matters
The suspension temporarily relieves motorists from compliance pressures and underscores the ongoing tension between law enforcement objectives and legal safeguards.
The court’s eventual ruling could set a precedent on the limits of police regulatory powers and influence how future public safety policies balance security with constitutional rights.
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