By Ado Oyeyemi
The Senate has passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Amendment Bill, 2026, proposing a ₦50,000 fine for anyone convicted of hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles.
The bill, which has been transmitted for presidential assent, also introduces stiffer penalties for several traffic offences aimed at improving road safety, strengthening enforcement and reducing accidents across the country.
Under the proposed legislation, individuals found engaging in hawking, trading or preaching in commercial buses would, upon conviction, be liable to a ₦50,000 fine.
Lawmakers said the provision was introduced to minimise distractions within commercial vehicles and enhance the safety of passengers.
The amendment also prescribes a ₦50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment or both for motorists who refuse to cooperate with officials of the FRSC during roadside breath tests conducted on reasonable suspicion.
In addition, the bill raises the penalty for driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating drugs from the current ₦5,000 fine to ₦100,000. Convicted offenders may also face up to two years’ imprisonment or both.
Motorists who disobey traffic lights, road signs, pavement markings and other traffic control devices would also be liable to a ₦100,000 fine under the proposed law.
Similarly, the penalty for violating speed limits has been increased from ₦5,000 to ₦100,000, while reckless driving will attract a ₦100,000 fine, up to two years’ imprisonment, or both.
The revised schedule of offences contained in the amendment lists 52 traffic violations alongside their corresponding penalties.
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According to the Senate, the review is intended to strengthen the enforcement powers of the FRSC, improve compliance with traffic regulations and promote safer roads across Nigeria.
