Nigerians to face ₦50,000 fine for selling and preaching in buses, says Senate

The Senate has approved the revised Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which introduces strict fines for various road-related offenses. Among the new regulations is a ₦50,000 fine for individuals who sell, hawk, or preach to passengers in commercial buses.

This legislative change is pending the president’s signature to become law. It also imposes a ₦50,000 penalty, up to six months in jail, or both for drivers who decline roadside breathalyzer tests requested by road safety officers under reasonable suspicion.

The amended bill details that fines for many traffic offenses have increased by as much as 300%. This increase is part of a larger strategy to deter reckless driving, enforce stricter compliance with traffic regulations, and reduce road accidents.

The legislation, officially referred to as the Federal Road Safety Corps Act (Amendment), 2026 (HBs. 1401 & 1604 – For Concurrence), was presented to the Senate for its initial reading on July 1, 2026.

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With these new provisions, anyone found hawking or preaching inside public transport vehicles risks prosecution and a ₦50,000 fine if convicted. Senators emphasized that this initiative aims to eliminate unsafe distractions in commercial buses and protect passengers.

During discussions on the proposed changes, lawmakers argued that tougher penalties are essential for addressing ongoing lawlessness and hazardous behaviors on public roads.

Additionally, the bill increases the fine for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs from ₦5,000 to ₦100,000, with offenders facing up to two years in prison, or both. The law makes it clear that driving or attempting to drive while impaired by alcohol or drugs beyond the legal limit, or to a degree that jeopardizes safe vehicle operation, is a punishable offense.