Christian Groups Oppose Proposed Ban on Preaching in Commercial Buses

Christian organisations have criticised a proposed amendment to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Act that would make preaching in commercial vehicles an offence punishable by law.

The groups, including the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) and the Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC), argued that the proposal could violate constitutional rights to freedom of religion and expression.

The Senate recently passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which proposes a ₦50,000 fine for anyone found guilty of hawking, trading, or preaching inside commercial vehicles.

The bill, aimed at reducing distractions and improving road safety, is awaiting President Bola Tinubu’s approval.

Reacting to the development, the Christian Council of Nigeria said it supports efforts to improve road safety but expressed concern over the inclusion of preaching among prohibited activities.

The council noted that preaching in commercial buses has long been a means of sharing messages of hope, encouragement, and faith with willing passengers.

The council also urged the government to address the root causes of hawking, such as poverty and unemployment, rather than imposing heavy fines on struggling Nigerians.

Similarly, the Organisation of African Instituted Churches called on President Tinubu to withhold assent to the bill.

The group described it as inappropriate to equate peaceful religious preaching with commercial hawking and maintained that preaching is protected under Nigeria’s Constitution.

The association urged the National Assembly to review the bill through broader consultations with religious bodies and other stakeholders to ensure road safety measures do not undermine fundamental freedoms.

Both organisations reaffirmed their support for lawful and responsible religious activities while calling on the government to protect citizens’ constitutional rights.

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