The House of Representatives has directed the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Police Command to immediately cease the harassment of motorists and release vehicles impounded solely for violations related to tinted glasses or covered number plates, provided there are no other offenses.
Additionally, the House called on the FCT Police Command to issue a public notice granting vehicle owners a grace period of at least 90 days to comply with regulations regarding tinted glasses and number plates.
The lawmakers further instructed the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to conduct a comprehensive public enlightenment campaign.
This campaign would educate citizens on the regulations and outline the procedures for obtaining permits or making necessary modifications to vehicles.
These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance, titled: “Addressing the Enforcement of Ban on Tinted Glasses and Covered Number Plates in the FCT,” presented by Rep. Tolani Shagaya, who represents Asa/Ilorin West federal constituency of Kwara State, during plenary on Tuesday.
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While presenting the motion, Rep. Shagaya acknowledged the recent directive by the FCT Police Command enforcing the ban on vehicles with tinted glasses and covered number plates as part of efforts to combat rising criminal activities, including kidnapping.
However, he argued that abruptly implementing the directive without sufficient public notice has led to widespread harassment of motorists and inconvenienced law-abiding citizens.
“Concerned that the lack of sufficient time for vehicle owners to comply with the new regulations has resulted in numerous vehicles being impounded, causing undue hardship and potential economic losses to individuals and businesses.
“Recognizes the importance of security measures to protect citizens but emphasizes that such measures must be implemented in a manner that respects the rights of individuals and allows for reasonable compliance timelines,” Shagaya stated.
The House unanimously adopted the motion and mandated its Committee on Police to engage with the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force.
The aim is to develop clear guidelines for the enforcement of such directives in the future, ensuring adequate public awareness and reasonable timelines before implementation.
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