The Senate has clarified that the ongoing amendment to the Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC Act does not introduce a new ban on preaching or hawking, but only restates existing provisions relating to commercial vehicles.
The clarification follows public debate surrounding proposed N50,000 penalties for violations inside transit vehicles.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Directorate of Media and Public Affairs, Office of the Leader of the Senate, the chamber said it had noted public concerns over the purported proscription.
It noted that the restriction is grounded in Section 10(4) of the FRSC (Establishment) Act of 2007 and Regulation 220 of the National Road Traffic Regulations, 2012.
Officials clarified that the ongoing legislative process primarily involves renumbering the existing provision—moving it from Item 36 to Item 49 in the Second Schedule of the Act—and adjusting penalty structures to enhance commuter safety.
The Senate emphasized that the law applies exclusively to commercial transit vehicles and does not ban public street preaching or religious activities in open public spaces.
The Senate further noted that the bill originated as a concurrence measure passed by the House of Representatives rather than a fresh initiative by Senate leadership.
The legislative body added that the amendment process remains ongoing and open to public input, alongside proposed statutory fine increases for severe traffic infractions, including driving under the influence and reckless driving.
