Last Thursday, the Senate passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (Amendment) Bill, 2026. According to the upper chamber of the National Assembly, the review is aimed at strengthening the FRSC’s enforcement powers, improving compliance with traffic regulations and enhancing safety on Nigerian roads. Naturally, anything that will contribute to reducing crashes on our roads should excite every right-thinking Nigerian.
However, among the various provisions proposed in the amendment bill, one stood out like a sore thumb, thereby igniting debate about the delicate balance between public order and fundamental rights. That provision proposes a fine of N50,000 for anyone convicted of hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles. Lawmakers explained that the provision was introduced to discourage distractions in commercial vehicles and improve the safety of commuters.
For decades, commercial buses in Nigeria have served not only as a means of transportation but also as platforms for evangelism, public enlightenment, political
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