By Chiemeka Ugwowo, Abuja
FRSC Amendment: Senate Says ₦50,000 Fine Does Not Ban Preaching, Clarifies Controversial Provision
The Senate has dismissed concerns surrounding the controversial provision in the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Amendment Bill 2026), insisting that the proposed ₦50,000 fine for preaching, hawking and trading inside commercial vehicles is not a move to prohibit religious activities or street evangelism.
The clarification comes amid widespread public reactions following the passage of the amendment bill, with critics expressing concerns that the provision could infringe on freedom of worship and public expression.
According to the Senate, the clause is not a new introduction but an existing provision in the FRSC Act of 2007, retained as part of efforts to strengthen road safety regulations and prevent activities that could distract drivers and contribute to road accidents.
The proposed measure had attracted criticism from opposition parties, civil society organisations and members of the public, who argued that imposing penalties on such activities could worsen the challenges faced by Nigerians amid rising unemployment and economic difficulties.
However, the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, said the provision had been misunderstood and wrongly interpreted.
Bamidele explained that the amendment does not criminalise preaching in public places or introduce a fresh offence, but is targeted at regulating activities within commercial vehicles to enhance safety and order on Nigerian roads.
He urged Nigerians to consider the broader objective of the amendment, stressing that the review of the FRSC Act is focused on improving road safety standards and protecting lives.
