A Delta State High Court has issued an injunction restraining the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) from resuming the enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy across the state.
The ruling followed a suit challenging the legality and manner of enforcement of the policy, which motorists have long complained is often abused by security operatives. The court ordered the police to suspend any form of arrest, harassment, intimidation, or extortion of motorists over tinted glass permits pending the determination of the substantive case.
In its decision, the court held that the resumption of enforcement without clear, transparent guidelines and safeguards could infringe on the fundamental rights of citizens, particularly their right to freedom of movement and dignity. The judge emphasized that any policy affecting the public must be implemented strictly within the confines of the law.
The applicant argued that despite previous directives suspending enforcement nationwide, police officers continued to mount roadblocks and demand tinted glass permits, subjecting motorists to unlawful arrests and payments. The court agreed that there was sufficient ground to grant an interim injunction to prevent further alleged abuses.
As part of the order, the court restrained the Inspector-General of Police, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, and their agents from enforcing the tinted glass permit policy until the case is fully heard and determined.
The ruling has been welcomed by motorists and civil rights groups, who have consistently called for clarity and reform in the enforcement of the policy. Many Nigerians have argued that factory-fitted tinted windows should not require permits, especially when enforcement is often linked to extortion.
The case has been adjourned to a later date for further hearing, while the injunction remains in force.
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