NBA-SPIDEL Issues Ultimatum to Inspector General of Police Over Controversial Vehicle Certificate

The Nigeria Bar Association Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, demanding the cessation of the directive that requires vehicle owners to obtain a Central Motor Information System (CMRIS) Certificate for a fee of not less than N6,000.

In a strongly worded letter co-signed by NBA-SPIDEL Chairman, John Aikpokpo-Martins, and Secretary, Funmi Adeogun, the association questioned the legal foundation for the Nigeria Police Force’s issuance of the CMRIS Certificates. They asserted that no existing law grants the police the authority to issue such licenses or certificates to vehicle owners, post-registration at the relevant offices.

“Any such certificate issued by the Nigeria Police Force without legal backing is outright illegal, null, and void, and therefore of no consequence,” the letter stated. NBA-SPIDEL demanded an immediate halt to the issuance and enforcement of the CMRIS Certificates, urging the Inspector General of Police to issue a directive stopping the practice nationwide.

In addition to halting the practice, the association called for the shutdown of the registration website and physical registration centers, with refunds to be made to those who had already paid for the certificates. They emphasized that the role of the police is to safeguard the public and uphold the law, not to seize funds or grant licenses to car owners.

The letter also highlighted the exploitation of Nigerians’ lack of awareness, leading to demands for money during traffic checks. “Failure, neglect, or refusal to comply with this lawful demand within seven days of receipt of this letter will compel NBA-SPIDEL to seek appropriate sanctions in court against your esteemed office and the Nigeria Police Force,” the letter warned.

NBA-SPIDEL’s decisive action underscores the organization’s commitment to protecting public interest and ensuring legal compliance by law enforcement agencies. The outcome of this ultimatum is awaited with significant interest as it could impact the ongoing practices and policies of the Nigeria Police Force.