The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has initiated legal action to challenge the legality of the Nigeria Police Force’s tinted glass permit policy, citing concerns over citizens’ constitutional rights and transparency in the enforcement of the measure. The decision followed a key resolution of the NBA’s National Executive Council during its pre-conference meeting on 23 August 2025 in Enugu, directing the association to pursue litigation to ensure accountability and protect fundamental freedoms.
The tinted glass permit policy, introduced by the Inspector General of Police in April 2025, requires vehicle owners to obtain annual permits through a digital portal managed by a private vendor. The enforcement of this policy, initially set for 1 June 2025 and later extended to 2 October 2025, has already led to reports of harassment and extortion at police checkpoints. Critics argue that the policy infringes on citizens’ rights to dignity, privacy, freedom of movement, and ownership of property, as guaranteed by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999. Questions have also been raised about the policy’s legal foundation, particularly the reliance on the military-era Motor Tinted Glass (Prohibition) Act of 1991, which may not satisfy constitutional requirements for laws in a democratic society.
Further concerns have emerged over the lack of statutory provisions for renewal of tinted glass permits and the collection of fees into a private account—PARKWAY PROJECTS Account No: 4001017918—rather than the Federation Account, raising issues of transparency and accountability. The NBA argues that without proper oversight and statutory backing, the policy could set a precedent for arbitrary charges and enforcement practices that undermine public trust in law enforcement and governance.
In response, NBA-SPIDEL, under the leadership of Transition Committee Chairman Prof. Paul Ananaba, SAN, and the Public Interest Litigation Committee chaired by Mr. Olukunle Ogheneovo Edun, SAN, filed a public interest suit on 2 September 2025 at the Federal High Court, Abuja (Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/182/2025), seeking judicial determination on the legality of the tinted glass permit policy. Successful litigation could safeguard citizens’ constitutional rights, establish clear legal boundaries for police enforcement, and enhance transparency in the collection and use of funds.
Legal observers note that the case carries wider implications beyond the tinted glass issue, highlighting the importance of ensuring that security policies in Nigeria respect democratic principles, human rights, and statutory limitations. A favorable ruling could set a precedent for holding government agencies accountable for policies that potentially infringe on citizens’ freedoms, while also reinforcing public confidence in the judicial system as a check on administrative overreach.
Reported by: Stone Reporters News
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