The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has raised concerns over the nationwide enforcement of the tinted glass permit by the police, describing the policy as unlawful.
The association said it would offer free legal assistance to motorists who face harassment or extortion under the scheme.The NBA noted that the enforcement has no constitutional backing and accused the police of turning the exercise into a revenue-generating venture.
The association explained that motorists should not be compelled to pay fees or renew permits annually, calling the move inconsistent with the law and modern vehicle standards.
The issue is already before the Federal High Court in Abuja, where the NBA seeks a declaration that the tinted glass policy is unconstitutional and an injunction to stop the police from arrests or extortion.
The association argued that past police authorities had at different times suspended or abolished the permit requirement, and noted that some senior officers drive heavily tinted vehicles without permits.
The NBA expressed particular concern after police impounded the vehicle of a National Industrial Court judge on the first day of enforcement in Asaba, Delta State.
The association criticized this as an avoidable situation and said it attempted to obtain a last-minute injunction to halt the action, but the court declined to hear the request due to procedural limits.
The NBA urged the judiciary to act quickly in urgent matters affecting the public, warning that the police cannot impose what amounts to taxation without proper legislation.
The association pledged continued legal support for citizens who might be affected during the ongoing enforcement.