Commercial Bus Preaching Ban? What the New ₦50,000 Fine Could Mean

The Nigerian Senate has approved a bill that proposes a ₦50,000 fine for people who hawk, trade, or preach inside commercial buses, and the news has sparked serious reactions across the country.
If the bill eventually becomes law, anyone caught preaching or selling goods inside a moving commercial bus could face the fine after being convicted.
The proposal is part of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Amendment Bill, 2026, which aims to improve safety on Nigerian roads. Lawmakers believe activities like preaching and hawking inside buses can distract drivers and increase the risk of accidents.
However, it is important to note that the bill is not yet a law. It still needs President Bola Tinubu’s approval before it can take effect.For many Nigerians, preaching and hawking inside buses have become part of everyday life. It is common to see people selling snacks, books, phone chargers, or health products while buses are moving. Religious preachers also use the opportunity to share messages with passengers, especially during morning and evening rush hours.
Because of this, the proposed fine has divided opinions.
Some Nigerians believe the move is a good one. They argue that loud preaching and constant hawking can distract drivers and make passengers uncomfortable. Others also say it could reduce theft and improve order inside commercial vehicles.
On the other hand, many people feel the proposal may affect those who depend on bus hawking to earn a living. Some also believe preaching is part of Nigerians’ culture and should not attract such a heavy penalty.
The bill also includes tougher penalties for other traffic offences, such as reckless driving, speeding, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. According to lawmakers, the overall goal is to make Nigerian roads safer for everyone.
As expected, social media has been buzzing since the news broke. While some users are praising the Senate’s decision, others are questioning whether enforcing the rule will be practical and fair.
For now, Nigerians can only wait to see whether the President signs the bill into law. Until then, there is no ₦50,000 fine in force yet.

Iwebema Emmanuel

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