The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate suspension of the planned enforcement of the e-Central Motor Registry (e-CMR), originally set to begin on July 29.
The announcement was made by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Monday in Abuja. Adejobi explained that the suspension aims to allow sufficient time for public education and awareness about the process, benefits, and effectiveness of the e-CMR.
The I-G instructed police officers to refrain from requesting e-CMR certificates, warning that officers found extorting or exploiting the public under the guise of enforcing e-CMR requirements will face sanctions. The enforcement will be carried out only by designated officers from a date to be announced later.
The e-CMR is designed to address vehicle-related crimes and protect vehicle ownership for both individuals and corporations. It will compile data entered by vehicle owners and flag vehicles if reported stolen.
"The e-CMR will provide a primary database for the Force to curb vehicular crimes, as dedicated officers can access real-time comprehensive data of every vehicle on their tablets," Adejobi said. The e-CMR will prevent multiple vehicle registrations and serve as a database to collect biometric and other data of vehicle owners. It will also enhance the national database and incident report portal generated from other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, contributing to overall security.
Contrary to circulating rumors, Adejobi clarified that the e-CMR is not a revenue-generating platform. Instead, it is an initiative to digitalize policing for the effectiveness and safety of lives and property of Nigerian residents. The police spokesman called for the understanding and support of all well-meaning Nigerians and residents to embrace the e-CMR system.
Reports stated that the IG had initially ordered the enforcement of the digitalized e-CMR to start on July 29.