The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has released a statement defending its Tinted Glass Permit Policy and rejecting allegations by Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President Mazi Afam Osigwe that payments for permits were being made into a private account.

Published on its account on X, the Force clarified that Parkway Projects Limited, a Central Bank of Nigeria–licensed payment services provider, was officially engaged by the Federal Government to collect payments, similar to platforms like Remita. The reference number cited by the NBA was described not as a bank account but as a unique transaction identifier used for reconciliation into government channels.

The Police explained that while some motorists use tinted glass for privacy or aesthetics, indiscriminate use undermines traffic surveillance, facilitates criminal concealment, and hampers intelligence-led policing. The enhanced permit system was introduced to standardize applications nationwide, improve vetting, integrate security innovations, and eliminate extortion associated with the old process.

The Force recalled that enforcement of the policy had earlier been voluntarily suspended after engagements with the NBA and public appeals, stressing that this was an act of goodwill, not due to any judicial restraint. It noted that no court has issued a restraining order against the Police, and an interim injunction application was refused by the Federal High Court in Warri. Pending suits, including FHC/ABJ/CS/1821/2025, are acknowledged, with the Police pledging not to pre-empt judicial outcomes.

The statement emphasized that only a small percentage of motorists use tinted glass and that the security of the majority cannot be compromised to protect narrow interests. Enforcement, when undertaken, will be professional, measured, and rights-compliant, with extortion or abuse of authority by officers strictly sanctioned.

The Police also criticized what it described as “ignorant and mischievous claims” and cautioned against weaponizing individual misconduct to malign the institution. While recognizing the NBA as a vital stakeholder, the Force warned against public narratives that erode confidence in lawful authority.

It further noted reports of a fresh suit allegedly filed by Olukunle Edun, SAN, at the Delta State High Court despite pending related cases, and pledged to respond lawfully once served.

Inspector-General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun reassured Nigerians of the Force’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, accountability, and protection of fundamental rights, urging calm and respect for judicial processes as courts deliberate on the matter.