The Senate has passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introducing stiffer penalties for traffic offences, including a ₦50,000 fine for anyone caught hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles.
The proposed legislation, which is awaiting President Bola Tinubu’s assent, also prescribes a ₦50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both, for motorists who refuse to cooperate with FRSC officials during roadside breath tests conducted on reasonable suspicion.Executive Branch
The amended law significantly increases sanctions for several traffic offences as part of efforts to improve road safety, discourage reckless driving and reduce accidents across the country.
Under the bill, individuals found engaging in hawking, trading or religious preaching inside commercial buses will be liable to a ₦50,000 fine upon conviction.Politics
Lawmakers explained that the provision was introduced to minimise distractions in public transport and enhance the safety of commuters.
The legislation also raises the penalty for driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating substances from ₦5,000 to ₦100,000. Offenders may also face up to two years’ imprisonment or both penalties.
In addition, motorists who fail to obey traffic lights, road signs, pavement markings or other traffic control devices will now be liable to a ₦100,000 fine.
The amendment further increases the penalty for speeding from ₦5,000 to ₦100,000, while reckless driving now attracts a ₦100,000 fine, a prison term of up to two years, or both.
According to the Senate, the amended FRSC Act contains 52 traffic offences with revised penalties aimed at strengthening enforcement, improving compliance with traffic regulations and promoting safer roads nationwide.
If signed into law by the President, the new provisions are expected to have far-reaching implications for motorists, commercial transport operators and commuters across Nigeria.Executive Branch
