WARRI/Nigeria: The Nigerian Bar Association Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) has issued a scathing rebuke against the Nigeria Police Force’s planned implementation of the Electronic Central Motor Registry (E-CMR) Policy. In a press release dated 13th July 2024, NBA-SPIDEL, represented by its Chairman, John Aikpokpo-Martins, criticized the policy as unconstitutional and burdensome to Nigerian vehicle owners.
The E-CMR policy, originally introduced by the Nigeria Police Force in July 2023, mandates additional financial obligations and stringent procedures for the registration and validation of vehicle particulars. NBA-SPIDEL contends that these responsibilities fall outside the constitutional mandate of the police force, which traditionally rests with agencies such as the Federal Road Safety Commission, the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (VIOs) in the Federal Capital Territory, and state Motor Licensing offices.
The legal dispute escalated when NBA-SPIDEL filed Suit No: FHC/ABJ/247/2024, John Aikpokpo-Martins & Anor v. Inspector General of Police & Anor, before the Federal High Court, Abuja Division in February 2024. Despite being served with the Originating Summons, the Nigeria Police Force did not respond, prompting the court to adjourn the case to 29th May 2024. Subsequently, NBA-SPIDEL applied to discontinue the suit on 18th July 2024, a move opposed by the association, setting the stage for further legal confrontation.
The persistence of the Nigeria Police Force in pursuing the E-CMR policy amidst ongoing judicial proceedings has sparked widespread concern. John Aikpokpo-Martins underscored that Nigeria’s democratic principles and rule of law demand respect for judicial authority, cautioning against actions that undermine legal processes.
In response to these developments, NBA-SPIDEL has called upon the Inspector General of Police to rescind the E-CMR policy pending a definitive ruling by the Federal High Court. The association maintains that any enforcement of the policy before judicial clarity could jeopardize legal certainty and constitutional rights.
The unfolding legal saga highlights broader implications for governance and the rule of law in Nigeria, raising questions about institutional boundaries and accountability within law enforcement agencies.
