Following loud outcry against the enforcement of the recently re-introduced electronic Central Motor Registry Information System, the police has suspended its enforcement.
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, gave the directive.
The enforcement order triggered an outrage among Nigerians, who accused the police of seeking an opportunity to extort vehicle owners.
The Nigeria Bar Association, who had accused the police boss of disregarding the law, issued a seven-day ultimatum to the police to suspend the enforcement.
However, in a statement on Sunday, Adejobi announced that the IG had suspended the enforcement of the e-CMR, adding that the police will sensitise the citizens on the initiative, which he said was to make vehicles more secure.
He stated, “The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered an immediate suspension of the proposed enforcement of the e-CMR initially scheduled to commence on the 29th of July, 2024.
“This is to give ample opportunity for mass enlightenment and education of all citizens and residents on the process, benefits and effectiveness in solving the challenge of vehicle-related crimes, and protection of individual and corporate vehicle ownership.”
Muyiwa Adejobi says the IGP has ordered the suspension of the Electronic Central Motor registry.
Adejobi urged citizens to ignore insinuations that the move was a revenue-generation process and key into it to make their vehicles more secure.
“Contrary to news making the rounds and insinuations about the electronic central motor registry, the NPF wishes to state categorically that the e-CMR is not a revenue-generating platform but an initiative to digitalize policing for effectiveness and general safety of lives and property of Nigeria residents. “
He warned police officers to desist from requesting the e-CMR certificate from vehicle owners, adding that any erring officer would be sanctioned.
Nonetheless, the NBA has reiterated that it will not hesitate to challenge the police if it attempts to lift the suspension, advising the police to jettison the system completely.
