Nigerian police stop enforcing registration of electric motors

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the suspension of the enforcement of the Electronic Central Registration of Motor Vehicle Owners across the country.

The warrant sparked outrage among the Nigerian population, who accused the police of looking for a way to blackmail vehicle owners.

The Nigerian Bar Association, which had accused the police chief of contempt of the law, gave the police a seven-day ultimatum to suspend enforcement.

But in a statement on Sunday, Adejobi announced that the IG had suspended the enforcement of the e-CMR, adding that the police would sensitise citizens on the initiative, which he said is aimed at making vehicles safer.

He stated: “The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered an immediate suspension of the planned enforcement of the e-CMR, which was originally scheduled to commence on July 29, 2024. This is to provide ample opportunity for widespread awareness and education of all citizens and residents on the process, benefits and effectiveness in addressing the problem of vehicular crime as well as protecting vehicle ownership by individuals and businesses.”

Adejobi urged citizens to ignore insinuations that the measure was a source of revenue and instead focus on making their vehicles safer.

“Contrary to the news and insinuations circulating about the Electronic Central Vehicle Register, the NPF wishes to categorically state that the e-CMR is not a money-making platform but an initiative to digitize policing to increase efficiency and overall security of lives and properties of the Nigerian people.”

He warned police officers against requesting the e-CMR certificate from vehicle owners, adding that any officer who fails to comply with the rules would be sanctioned.