In a significant legal confrontation, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has initiated legal proceedings against the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), alleging unlawful practices and extortion related to vehicle registration and tinted-glass checks. This development underscores growing tensions between legal professionals and law enforcement agencies over the enforcement of vehicle regulations in Nigeria.
Vehicle Regulations and Enforcement
The NPF has implemented various measures to regulate vehicle usage, citing security concerns. These include requirements for tinted-glass permits and the introduction of the Central Motor Registry Information System (CMRIS) certificates. While these initiatives aim to enhance security, they have also led to widespread allegations of harassment and extortion by law enforcement officers.
In May 2025, the NPF resumed the issuance of tinted-glass permits, which had been suspended in June 2021 due to concerns over misuse and fraudulent acquisition. The reintroduction aimed to address public complaints about harassment by police officers targeting drivers with factory-fitted tinted windows. The NPF launched a digital platform, https://possap.gov.ng, to streamline the application process and reduce opportunities for extortion.
Despite these measures, reports of police officers demanding bribes from motorists, even those with valid permits, have persisted. In response to public outcry, the NPF extended the enforcement deadline for the tinted-glass permit requirement to October 2, 2025, to allow for a more thorough application review process and to fine-tune verification systems.
NBA's Legal Action
The NBA's legal challenge centers on the alleged lack of legal authority for the NPF to issue CMRIS certificates and the associated enforcement practices. In a letter addressed to the Inspector General of Police, the NBA demanded an immediate halt to the issuance and enforcement of CMRIS certificates, arguing that no law grants the police the authority to issue such licenses or certificates to vehicle owners.
The NBA contends that the police's role is to protect citizens and enforce the law, not to collect money or issue certificates to vehicle owners. They argue that the exploitation of Nigerians' lack of awareness has resulted in widespread extortion during road searches.
The association has given the NPF a seven-day ultimatum to cease these practices, warning that failure to comply will compel the NBA to seek appropriate sanctions in court against the police force.
Public and Legislative Response
The enforcement of vehicle regulations, particularly concerning tinted-glass permits, has drawn criticism from both the public and lawmakers. In December 2024, the House of Representatives directed the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command to cease the harassment of motorists and release vehicles impounded solely for violations related to tinted glasses or covered number plates, provided there are no other offenses. The House also called for a 90-day grace period for vehicle owners to comply with regulations and urged the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture to conduct a public enlightenment campaign on the matter.
These legislative actions highlight the growing concern over the enforcement methods employed by the police and their impact on citizens' rights.
Security Concerns and Enforcement
The NPF maintains that the enforcement of vehicle regulations, including the issuance of tinted-glass permits and CMRIS certificates, is crucial for national security. They argue that controlling the use of tinted windows and ensuring proper vehicle registration help prevent crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and terrorism.
In support of this stance, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has impounded over 700 vehicles for violations related to tinted glass, fake number plates, and other traffic offenses. The FCTA's actions are part of efforts to curb the rising menace of "one-chance" robberies in Abuja, where criminals use vehicles with tinted windows and fake plates to perpetrate crimes.
Despite these security concerns, the methods of enforcement have raised questions about legality and respect for citizens' rights.
The legal battle between the NBA and the NPF over vehicle regulation enforcement practices reflects broader issues concerning the balance between security measures and civil liberties in Nigeria. While the need for effective security protocols is undeniable, the methods employed must align with legal standards and respect for citizens' rights.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the courts will adjudicate the matter and what implications this will have for law enforcement practices and the protection of civil liberties in Nigeria.
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