The Senate has passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introducing stricter penalties for traffic offences, including a proposed N50,000 fine for anyone found hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial buses.
The bill, which is awaiting presidential assent before it becomes law, is aimed at strengthening road safety enforcement, reducing traffic violations and improving compliance with traffic regulations across the country.
Under the proposed legislation, individuals convicted of hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles will be liable to a N50,000 fine. Lawmakers said the provision is intended to reduce distractions in commercial buses and improve the safety of passengers and motorists.
The amendment also prescribes a N50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both, for motorists who refuse to cooperate with FRSC officials during roadside breath tests conducted on reasonable suspicion.
The bill significantly increases sanctions for several traffic offences, with some penalties rising by as much as 300 per cent.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating drugs will now attract a N100,000 fine, up to two years’ imprisonment, or both. The legislation states that any person who drives or attempts to drive while impaired beyond the legal limit, or to the extent that they cannot properly control a vehicle, commits an offence.
The amendment further raises the penalty for failing to obey traffic lights, road signs, pavement markings or other traffic control devices to N100,000.
Similarly, speeding offences, which previously attracted a N5,000 fine, will now carry a N100,000 penalty, while reckless driving will also attract a N100,000 fine, up to two years’ imprisonment, or both.
The revised legislation contains an updated schedule of 52 traffic offences and their corresponding penalties. According to the Senate, the review is designed to strengthen the enforcement powers of the FRSC, improve compliance with traffic laws and enhance road safety nationwide.
If signed into law by President Bola Tinubu, the new penalties are expected to have a significant impact on commercial transport operators, commuters and other road users, particularly in major cities where hawking and preaching inside commercial buses are common.
