In a statement issued on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, the NBA warned that proceeding with the crackdown would undermine the judicial process and risk rendering any court decision moot.

The appeal comes just days before the police’s scheduled nationwide enforcement, set to commence on Thursday, October 2, 2025. 

NBA Publicity Secretary, Bridget Edokwe, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “Continuing with the enforcement would undermine the judicial process and potentially render the court’s decision ineffective.” 

The association argued that the policy, which requires vehicle owners to obtain permits for tinted glasses, raises significant concerns over its constitutionality, privacy rights, and potential for arbitrary implementation.

The controversy stems from a lawsuit filed by the NBA, which seeks to declare the tint permit enforcement unlawful. Legal experts within the association contend that the policy infringes on citizens’ rights and could lead to widespread harassment by security operatives. 

The NBA’s intervention highlights broader tensions between law enforcement agencies and civil society groups in Nigeria, where enforcement actions are often perceived as overreaching without adequate public consultation.

In response, the police have firmly rejected the NBA’s plea, insisting that only a direct court order—not the mere filing or service of legal papers—can halt the operation. 

A police statement read: “Only an order of court can stop the enforcement of an existing law. There is no such order! Mere service of court papers is not equal to a court order. Enforcement of the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass law commences as planned on Thursday, 2 October 2025.” 

Authorities have defended the policy as a measure to enhance security by reducing vehicle anonymity, which they link to criminal activities.