Grace Ashiru
Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) of Nigeria, has ordered the indefinite suspension of the enforcement of the controversial electronic Central Motor Registry (e-CMR) for vehicle owners. On Saturday, July 13, 2024, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) announced that vehicle owners in Nigeria had until July 29, 2024, to register for the e-CMR at a cost of ₦5,375 per vehicle or face sanctions. This announcement was met with widespread condemnation from many Nigerians.
According to a post on X, signed by Prince Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) and force Public Relations Officer (PRO), the suspension is intended to give the NPF ample time to educate the public on the benefits and effectiveness of the e-CMR initiative.
According to the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), the e-CMR is an advanced, real-time online repository of motor vehicle data designed to enhance police investigations and operational activities. It aims to combat vehicle-related crimes, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery.
The development of the e-CMR seeks to streamline the documentation and verification processes for vehicle ownership and related transactions. For citizens, the latest statement claims that the digitalisation of these processes will enable the police to ensure the safety and security of all vehicle types, including motorcycles. By acting on data collated from vehicle owners, the police can flag vehicles reported as stolen.
Additionally, the e-CMR will prevent multiple registrations of vehicles and serve as a database to collect biometric and other data of vehicle owners and individuals. This will add value to the national database and the incident report portal generated from other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, contributing to overall security efforts.
In response to some Nigerians who have labeled the digital initiative as merely another method for the authorities to generate revenue, the Police have clarified that the e-CMR is not intended for such purposes. Instead, they emphasized that it is a measure to enhance policing, thereby increasing the effectiveness and overall safety of lives and property for Nigerians.
The Police have advised the public to obtain their e-CMR certificates online through the official website. Although the enforcement of this initiative is currently on hold, the initiative itself remains active.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has also instructed all Police officers to refrain from requesting e-CMR certificates, as the enforcement will be conducted solely by a dedicated team and has been suspended indefinitely. The statement further warned that any officers who fail to comply with this directive will face appropriate sanctions.
