In recent months, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has witnessed a remarkable shift in the fight against crime, particularly the menace of ‘one-chance’ criminals. These perpetrators have terrorised residents, leaving a trail of fear and insecurity. However, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police (CP) Tunji Disu and the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, the tide is turning, due to a proactive and pragmatic policing approach.
The decision to enforce regulations against tinted windows and the unwarranted covering of vehicle license plates is not only timely but also strategic in combating the one-chance menace and kidnapping in the FCT. The policy has significantly tackled the root of the problem—anonymity. According to the Commissioner of Police for Abuja, criminals have long exploited tinted windows to conceal their identities and activities, making it difficult for security operatives and members of the public to rescue kidnapped victims. By restricting the indiscriminate use of tinted glass, the police have sent a clear message: Abuja will no longer be a haven for such activities.
Critics, particularly from the political elite, have raised concerns about this policy, arguing that the policy is too sudden and would require adequate time before it can be enforced. Some have even intelligently questioned the powers of the police to make laws in the first place. Some residents of Abuja have also noted that the policy hasn’t settled well with the elite and political class because it inconveniences their families and staff. However, this perspective misses the bigger picture. The target of this policy is not law-abiding citizens but those who have weaponised tinted windows to perpetrate heinous crimes. The initial discomfort expressed by some residents and political class members is understandable; change often meets resistance. Yet, their reluctance should not overshadow the broader benefits of enhanced public safety.
One must also appreciate the courage it took to implement this policy in a city like Abuja, where appearances and privileges often precede collective security. It is no secret that the use of tinted windows has long been a status symbol, and reversing this trend would never be easy. However, the commissioner of police has demonstrated that effective policing is not about popularity but about making tough decisions in the people’s interest.
Beyond the tinted glass policy, this initiative highlights the importance of community-focused policing. It recognises that public trust and cooperation are vital to any successful crime-fighting strategy. Emboldened by the visible commitment of law enforcement to protect, FCT residents have begun to take off their tints and make videos, encouraging other motorists to be civil and law-abiding. This increased synergy between the police and the public is a testament to the effectiveness of leadership.
It is also worth noting that this policy is not about punishing law-abiding citizens. Exceptions exist for individuals with valid medical reasons for tinted windows, provided they follow the proper channels to obtain clearance. The focus remains firmly on those who abuse such privileges for criminal purposes. In light of this, it is difficult to argue against a policy prioritising safety without infringing on legitimate needs.
For far too long, the narrative surrounding law enforcement in Nigeria has been predominantly negative. While criticism is often warranted, acknowledging and supporting initiatives that work is equally important. CP Tunji Disu and the IGP have shown that the police can be proactive rather than reactive, which deserves recognition and reinforcement.
This development should serve as a template for other states grappling with similar challenges. The battle against ‘one-chance’ criminals is not unique to Abuja, and the success of this approach underscores the potential of targeted, intelligence-driven policing nationwide. If replicated and adapted, it could significantly reduce urban crime across Nigeria. During a recent press briefing in the FCT, the police said dozens of arrested one-chance criminals who have been taken off the streets have led to reduced cases across police stations in Abuja, which shows data-driven policing.
Moreover, this policy raises so many important questions about accountability. Why should public vehicles, including the minibuses—popularly known as Korope—which are meant to provide transparent and accessible transportation, have tinted windows? Such practices defy logic and create loopholes for criminals to exploit. By addressing this anomaly, the police have demonstrated their willingness to confront absurdities that undermine public safety.
Effective policing is a collective responsibility. While the police must lead the charge, citizens must support them through compliance, cooperation, and constructive feedback. Ongoing efforts by the police have reminded us that positive change is possible when law enforcement officials are given the tools, autonomy, and public backing to do their jobs effectively. The journey toward a safer Abuja is far from over, but the progress made so far is undeniable. Disu still has his work cut out for him, as some of his men have used the policy as a money-racking avenue and a means of extorting members of the public. He needs to caution them and make a scapegoat of erring officers to deter others.
