Senate Passes Bill Banning Preaching and Hawking in Commercial Vehicles, Sets ₦50,000 Fine

The Nigerian Senate has passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Amendment Bill, 2026, introducing a ₦50,000 fine for individuals convicted of preaching, hawking, or trading inside commercial vehicles. The bill, which aims to minimize driver distractions and enhance commuter safety, now awaits presidential assent to become law.

Beyond passenger distractions, the legislative amendment significantly stiffens penalties for various traffic violations to improve overall road safety. Under the new provisions, motorists who refuse to cooperate with FRSC officials conducting roadside breathalyzer tests on reasonable suspicion will face a ₦50,000 fine, six months in prison, or both.

The bill replaces outdated penalties with much stricter consequences across 52 listed traffic offenses. Fines for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will surge from ₦5,000 to ₦100,000, with offenders also risking up to two years of imprisonment. Additionally, disobeying traffic lights, road signs, or pavement markings will now attract a ₦100,000 fine. Speed limit violations have also been raised to a ₦100,000 penalty, while reckless driving will carry a ₦100,000 fine, up to two years in prison, or both.

Lawmakers emphasized that this comprehensive review of the FRSC Act is necessary to curb rising road accidents, strengthen the enforcement capabilities of road safety officials, and foster stricter compliance among Nigerian motorists.