Christian organisations have opposed the proposed amendment to the Federal Road Safety Corps Bill, which seeks to criminalise preaching in commercial vehicles.
The Christian bodies, including the Christian Council of Nigeria and the Organisation of African Instituted Churches, warned that the proposed legislation could infringe on Nigerians’ constitutional rights and worsen the plight of vulnerable citizens.
On Thursday, the Senate passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (Amendment) Bill, 2026, proposing a N50,000 fine for anyone convicted of hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles.
The bill, which seeks to strengthen road safety enforcement and curb practices considered capable of distracting drivers, now awaits presidential assent.
If signed into law, the legislation will impose a N50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both, on motorists who refuse to cooperate with officials of the FRSC during roadside breath tests conducted on reasonable suspicion.
Reacting to the proposed legislation, the CCN said it was “deeply concerned” about the inclusion of preaching among the prohibited activities.
The body, in a statement issued on Friday and signed by its General Secretary, Rev. Evans Onyemara, said although it supports measures aimed at improving road safety, the legislation should not come at the expense of constitutionally guaranteed freedoms.
