Delivering an interim ruling on Friday in Suit No. FHC/WR/CS/103/2025, the court directed the police authorities to “maintain the status quo and respect judicial processes pending further proceedings in the matter.”
The case was filed by legal practitioner, John Aikpokpo-Martins, who is challenging the legality of the tinted glass permit enforcement.
Confirming the development, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Kunle Edun, SAN, who led the legal team for the petitioner, described the ruling as a “major step in ensuring that the rule of law is upheld while the substantive issues in the case are being determined.”
Background of the Dispute
In April 2025, the Nigeria Police Force announced the resumption of tinted glass permit issuance nationwide through the Police Specialised Services Automation Project (POSSAP). The scheme, suspended in 2022, was reintroduced with an August 12 compliance deadline, later extended to October 2.
The police defended the policy as lawful, citing the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act of 1991 and national security concerns. However, the move triggered public backlash, with motorists complaining about harassment, extortion at checkpoints, and unfair treatment of those with factory-fitted tinted windows.
Delta Police Enforcement
Despite growing opposition, the Delta State Police Command had announced plans to begin full enforcement of tinted glass regulations on October 2, 2025. It pledged professionalism and “zero tolerance for abuse,” while also vowing to crack down on unauthorised sirens, revolving lights, and defaced number plates.
The Command further urged motorists to carry essential documents such as driver’s licences, proof of ownership, and insurance papers, assuring that operations would be conducted in line with constitutional rights.
What’s Next
With the interim order now in place, the legality of the tinted glass permit enforcement will be determined when the court resumes hearing on the substantive suit. Until then, the police are expected to halt enforcement activities.
