Senate Approves ₦50,000 Fine for Hawking, Preaching in Commercial Buses

The Senate has passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introducing stiffer penalties for traffic offences, including a ₦50,000 fine for anyone caught hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial buses.

 

The amendment, which is awaiting presidential assent, also prescribes a ₦50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both for motorists who fail to cooperate with FRSC officials during roadside breath tests conducted on reasonable suspicion.

 

The bill, titled Federal Road Safety Corps Act (Amendment), 2026, was first read in the Senate on July 1, 2026.

 

Under the amended law, lawmakers said the ban on hawking, trading and preaching in commercial vehicles is aimed at reducing distractions and improving the safety of commuters.

 

The legislation also increases the penalty for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs from ₦5,000 to ₦100,000, with offenders facing up to two years’ imprisonment or both.

 

Motorists who disobey traffic lights, road signs, pavement markings or other traffic control devices will also pay a ₦100,000 fine, while speed limit violations now attract the same penalty.

 

Reckless driving will equally attract a ₦100,000 fine, up to two years’ imprisonment, or both.

 

The amended Act lists 52 traffic offences and their corresponding penalties.

 

According to the Senate, the review is intended to strengthen the FRSC’s enforcement powers, improve compliance with traffic regulations and enhance road safety across the country.