The Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly to review the proposed amendment to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Act that seeks to impose a ₦50,000 fine on individuals convicted of preaching, hawking, or trading in commercial buses.
The Council described the provision as one that could infringe on the constitutional rights of Nigerians to freely practise and propagate their faith, urging the President to withhold assent to the bill until the controversial section is reconsidered.
In a statement signed by its leadership, the CCN argued that while road safety remains a legitimate concern, criminalising religious preaching in public transport raises significant questions about freedom of religion and freedom of expression, both of which are protected under the Nigerian Constitution.
According to the Christian body, evangelism has long been an integral part of Christian witness in Nigeria, with many believers using public spaces—including commercial buses—to share messages of hope, repentance, and faith. The Council warned that the proposed legislation could unintentionally restrict lawful religious activities while attempting to address distractions in public transportation.
The appeal follows the passage of the Federal Road Safety Corps (Amendment) Bill, 2026 by the Senate, which introduces tougher penalties for several traffic-related offences. Among the most debated provisions is the proposal to fine individuals ₦50,000 for preaching, hawking, or trading inside commercial vehicles upon conviction.
The bill has generated widespread reactions from Christians, legal practitioners, civil society organisations, and members of the public. While supporters argue that the measure is intended to reduce distractions for drivers and improve road safety, critics maintain that it should not come at the expense of constitutionally guaranteed religious freedoms.
The Christian Council urged lawmakers to engage faith leaders, legal experts, and other stakeholders to find a balanced approach that promotes road safety without criminalising peaceful religious expression.
As of the time of reporting, the bill is yet to receive presidential assent and has not become law. If signed by President Tinubu, it would introduce the proposed penalties as part of the revised FRSC Act.
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