The House of Representatives has directed the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command to immediately suspend the enforcement of the tinted glass ban within Abuja.
Reports indicate that the House has called for a 90-day grace period, during which residents of the capital city will be given ample opportunity to be educated and informed about the regulations surrounding the tinted glass ban. This period is intended to ensure that citizens are not unfairly penalized without adequate awareness.
As part of its resolution, the House has also instructed the FCT Police Command to release all impounded vehicles affected by the enforcement of the ban and to cease the harassment of motorists within the capital city. This decision was reached to mitigate the negative impact of the enforcement on individuals and businesses.
This directive followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance introduced by Mukhtar Tolani Shagaya. The motion highlighted the urgent need to address concerns arising from the enforcement of the ban and its implications for residents.
Furthermore, the House directed the Committee on Police Affairs to engage with the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force to develop and implement clear and standardized enforcement guidelines for future directives. This move aims to prevent arbitrary actions and ensure transparency and fairness in enforcement practices.
Additionally, the House has called on the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture to collaborate with key stakeholders to initiate a comprehensive “public enlightenment campaign.” This campaign would educate citizens about the new regulations, the steps required to obtain necessary permits, and the processes for making required modifications to their vehicles.
According to The Nation, Shagaya informed the House that the FCT Police Command introduced the ban on tinted glasses and covered number plates as a measure to address the rising wave of criminal activities, particularly kidnapping, within the capital city.
However, Shagaya emphasized that the enforcement has been marred by widespread reports of harassment directed at motorists and residents, further exacerbating tensions in Abuja. He pointed out that the lack of adequate public awareness and the insufficient time given for compliance have led to the impoundment of numerous vehicles, creating undue hardship for families and businesses.
