In a major security-driven announcement, the Nigeria Police Force has declared it will resume full enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy nationwide — including in Bauchi State — beginning January 2, 2026. The move comes after a period of suspension meant to give motorists time to obtain the required permits, and follows growing concerns over the misuse of darkened vehicle windows in criminal activity.
Why Enforcement Is Returning
According to the Force’s statement, signed by Force Public Relations Officer CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the decision follows a careful review of prevailing security challenges and rising trends of crime linked to vehicles fitted with unauthorised tinted glass.
The police argue that vehicles with illegal tinted windows have increasingly been used by criminal elements to conceal identities and facilitate offences including armed robbery, kidnapping, and other violent crimes — trends that the upcoming enforcement seeks to address proactively.
Officials also clarified that enforcement was previously suspended not because of any binding court order against the policy, but as a voluntary measure to give motorists ample time to regularise documentation and complete the permit application process without undue pressure.
What Motorists Should Know
Under the renewed rule:
- Enforcement begins January 2, 2026, giving vehicle owners time to prepare.
- Motorists are encouraged to secure tinted glass permits through approved channels ahead of the start date to avoid penalties.
- The policy applies nationwide, including Bauchi, as part of broader efforts to improve road safety and assist in criminal investigations.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has assured the public that enforcement will be conducted professionally and lawfully, with respect for citizens’ rights.
Tensions With Legal Community
The announcement has stirred controversy, particularly among legal professionals. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly criticised the police’s plan, describing the decision to resume enforcement as a challenge to the rule of law and an act that could amount to contempt of court.
The NBA’s position stems from ongoing legal actions questioning the constitutional authority of the tinted glass permit policy and its enforcement mechanisms. Lawyers argue that acting on enforcement while related court cases are pending could undermine judicial processes and citizens’ rights.
Public Debate and Implications
Supporters of the enforcement highlight its potential to reduce crime by eliminating a common tool criminals use to evade detection. Critics, however, have raised concerns about possible police harassment, extortion, and the financial impact on motorists — especially as many imported vehicles already come with factory-fitted tinted glass.
The debate underscores wider tensions in Nigeria’s security policy and the balance between public safety measures and civil liberties.
