The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the Nigeria Police Force’s decision to resume enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy from January 2, 2026, calling it “a grave affront to the majesty of the court” and “a subversion of the rule of law.”
NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, said in a December 15 statement, “This press release confirms the sad reality that the Nigeria Police Force continues to exhibit a troubling disregard for the rule of law and due process it is constitutionally mandated to uphold.”
The policy, introduced in April 2025, requires vehicle owners to obtain annual permits via an online platform but has faced widespread backlash over reports of harassment and extortion.
The NBA filed suit on September 2, challenging its legality on grounds including its basis on an outdated military-era law and the collection of fees payable to a private company.
“The policy is unconstitutional, obnoxious, and a threat to citizens’ rights and economic well-being,” the NBA said.
The association also highlighted that enforcement “adds to Nigeria’s layers of taxation and imposes financial hardship on Nigerians.”
After the Inspector General of Police agreed to suspend enforcement pending court rulings, the Federal High Court struck out a motion for injunction on December 12, relying on this undertaking.
Yet, days later, the Police announced a resumption of enforcement—a move the NBA calls “reckless” and “contemptuous.”
Osigwe warned, “The Nigeria Police Force must respect the authority of the courts. Failure to do so will force the NBA to commence contempt proceedings against the IGP and his spokesperson.”
The NBA has also pledged to provide legal support to anyone harassed or prosecuted under the policy and urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene, stating, “The planned resumption will impose unjustified financial hardship and undermine judicial authority.”
The NBA’s stance underscores the ongoing tension between law enforcement actions and constitutional rights in Nigeria.
