Nigeria Court Halts Police Enforcement of Controversial Tinted Glass Permit Policy

The Digest:

A Federal High Court in Warri has ordered the Nigeria Police Force to maintain the status quo on its reintroduced tinted glass permit, following a legal challenge against its legality and alleged violation of citizens' rights.

Key Points:

• The suit was filed by lawyer John Aikpokpo-Martins, challenging the police's authority.
• It argues the policy exceeds the 1991 Tinted Glass Act, which allows permits only for health or security.
• The plaintiff contends that the blanket enforcement enables harassment and violates privacy rights.
• The police revived the permit via the POSSAP digital platform, citing security concerns.
• The Nigerian Bar Association has also filed a separate suit, calling the framework unconstitutional.
• The court's order places the enforcement in legal limbo just as the final grace period was ending.
• Public reaction is divided, with some celebrating and others frustrated after obtaining the permit.

The judicial intervention halts a policy at the intersection of security, citizen rights, and institutional overreach, leaving millions of motorists in a state of uncertainty.

Sources: PM News