The Inspector-General of Police , Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered an immediate suspension of the planned July 29 commencement of enforcement for the e-Central Motor Registry (e-CMR).
According to a statement by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in Abuja on Monday, the suspension aims to allow ample time for public enlightenment and education on the process, benefits, and effectiveness of the e-CMR.
Adejobi noted that the IG instructed police officers to refrain from requesting e-CMR certificates.
He warned of sanctions against officers found extorting the public under the guise of lacking e-CMR certificates.
The spokesperson clarified that enforcement would eventually be carried out by designated officers on a future date.
He emphasized that the e-CMR initiative is designed to tackle vehicle-related crimes, safeguard vehicle ownership rights, and maintain a comprehensive vehicle database accessible to law enforcement in real-time.
Contrary to speculation, Adejobi stressed that the e-CMR is not intended as a revenue-generating platform but as a digital policing tool to enhance safety and security nationwide.
He appealed for support and cooperation from Nigerians to embrace and integrate into the e-CMR system, aimed at modernizing and digitalizing vehicle registration to bolster national security efforts.
The e-CMR system is set to streamline vehicle documentation and verification processes, supporting police investigations and combating various vehicle-related crimes, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery.
