The Senate has defended the controversial provision in the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Amendment Bill, saying the proposed penalties for preaching, hawking and trading inside commercial vehicles are not new. Lawmakers explained that the provision has been part of the FRSC Act since 2007 and is aimed solely at improving road safety.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele said the amendment does not ban street evangelism or religious activities in public places, contrary to claims circulating online. According to him, the law only prohibits preaching and hawking inside commercial vehicles because such activities can distract drivers and endanger passengers.
The clarification follows widespread criticism after reports emerged that offenders could face a ₦50,000 fine if convicted of preaching, hawking or trading inside commercial vehicles. The Senate stressed that the amendment originated from the House of Representatives and is still undergoing the legislative process, giving stakeholders room to make further inputs before it becomes law.
Beyond the controversial provision, the amendment proposes tougher penalties for several traffic offences, including drunk driving, reckless driving, speeding and refusal to cooperate with roadside breath tests.
Lawmakers say the overall goal is to strengthen road safety enforcement and reduce accidents across the country, while opposition parties continue to urge the National Assembly to focus more on addressing the country’s economic challenges.
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