Senate Moves to Introduce ₦50,000 Fine for Preaching, Hawking in Commercial Buses

 

Senate Meeting

The Senate has passed an amendment to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Act proposing tougher penalties for several traffic offences, including a ₦50,000 fine for anyone found preaching, hawking or engaging in trading activities inside commercial buses.

The proposed legislation, which is yet to receive presidential assent, is aimed at improving road safety and reducing distractions that could endanger the lives of motorists and passengers across the country.

According to the bill, individuals who preach, sell goods or carry out any form of trading inside commercial vehicles could face a ₦50,000 fine if the amendment eventually becomes law. Lawmakers said the measure is intended to discourage activities capable of diverting drivers' attention while vehicles are in motion.

The amendment also recommends stiffer penalties for motorists who refuse to cooperate with officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps during breath alcohol tests. Such offenders could be fined ₦50,000, sentenced to six months in prison, or receive both punishments upon conviction.

In addition, the Senate proposed a significant increase in the punishment for driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating substances. The bill raises the fine from ₦5,000 to ₦100,000, while offenders may also face up to two years' imprisonment if found guilty.

Motorists who violate traffic lights, ignore road signs, road markings or other traffic control devices would equally face a ₦100,000 fine under the proposed law. The lawmakers believe stricter penalties will encourage greater compliance with traffic regulations and improve safety on Nigerian roads.

The amendment also targets speeding and reckless driving. Under the bill, the fine for speeding has been increased to ₦100,000, while reckless driving could attract the same fine, a prison term of up to two years, or both, depending on the court's decision.

The revised FRSC Act contains an updated schedule listing dozens of traffic offences and their corresponding penalties. Supporters of the amendment say the tougher sanctions are necessary to reduce road crashes, strengthen law enforcement and promote responsible road use.

The bill will now be forwarded for presidential assent. If signed into law, the new penalties will become part of Nigeria's road traffic regulations and will be enforced by the Federal Road Safety Corps nationwide.