The Nigerian police have paused the enforcement of the controversial electronic Central Motor Registry (e-CMR) certificate for vehicle owners, initially scheduled to start on July 29th. This decision follows widespread criticism and calls for reconsideration from various groups, including the Nigeria Bar Association.
Public Backlash and Suspension
The enforcement of the e-CMR would have imposed penalties on vehicle owners without the certificate. Critics argued that it was beyond the police’s remit to issue such documents. Responding to the backlash, police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi announced that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, suspended the enforcement to allow time for educating the public about the new system.
Purpose and Benefits of the e-CMR
Adejobi defended the e-CMR initiative, emphasizing its role in combating vehicular crimes. The e-CMR system aims to provide a comprehensive database accessible by police officers via tablets, enabling real-time data on all registered vehicles. This system is intended to prevent vehicle theft and facilitate the recovery of stolen vehicles by flagging them in the database.
The e-CMR will also prevent multiple registrations of vehicles and help compile biometric and other data of vehicle owners, enhancing the national security database. Contrary to some public perceptions, Adejobi clarified that the e-CMR is not a revenue-generating scheme but a digitalization effort to improve policing effectiveness and public safety.
Next Steps for Vehicle Owners
With the enforcement delayed, vehicle owners are encouraged to obtain the e-CMR certificate online at cmris.npf.gov.ng. The police have set up several hotlines and support contacts to assist the public with the registration process:
- 24/7 hotline: 02018870133
- CMR Command Centre at FHQ Abuja: 08117777666, 09169892000
- FHQ Annex Lagos: 08117777555, 09169891000
- Technical support: cmrtech@npfcmr.ng
Police Directive to Officers
The Inspector-General has instructed all police officers to refrain from requesting e-CMR certificates until the enforcement officially resumes. Any officer found exploiting the public under the pretext of the e-CMR requirements will face sanctions. The police emphasize that the current focus is on educating the public about the benefits and procedures of the e-CMR system.
Conclusion
The suspension of the e-CMR enforcement reflects the Nigerian police’s commitment to ensuring public understanding and support for this new initiative. By delaying the enforcement, the police aim to build awareness and smooth the transition to this digital system, ultimately enhancing vehicle security and policing efficiency across Nigeria
