The Senate has passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2026, proposing stiffer penalties for a wide range of traffic offences, including a N50,000 fine for anyone convicted of hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial buses.
The bill, which is awaiting presidential assent before it becomes law, also prescribes a N50,000 fine, a six-month jail term, or both, for motorists who fail to cooperate with FRSC officials during roadside breath tests conducted on reasonable suspicion.
The proposed legislation, titled Federal Road Safety Corps Act (Amendment), 2026 (HBs. 1401 & 1604 – For Concurrence), was first read in the Senate on July 1, 2026. It seeks to strengthen road safety enforcement by increasing penalties for several traffic offences, with some fines rising by as much as 300 per cent.
Under the amended provisions, any person found hawking, trading or preaching in commercial vehicles commits an offence and, upon conviction, will be liable to pay a N50,000 fine.
Lawmakers said the measure is aimed at reducing distractions in commercial vehicles, improving compliance with traffic regulations and enhancing the safety of passengers and other road users.
During deliberations on the bill, senators maintained that tougher sanctions are necessary to address persistent traffic violations, discourage unsafe road practices and reduce the rate of road crashes across the country.
The amendment will take effect only after it is signed into law by President Bola Tinubu.
