CAN rejects proposed ban on preaching inside vehicles

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has voiced strong opposition to a proposed ban on preaching within commercial vehicles, arguing it infringes upon citizens' constitutional rights to freedom of thought, conscience, religion, and expression. The ban is part of the Federal Road Safety Corps (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which also proposes fines for hawking and penalties for refusing roadside breath tests.

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We acknowledged the Federal Government’s commitment to improving road safety and reducing avoidable road crashes across Nigeria. We support every genuine effort aimed at protecting lives and promoting responsible road use.

CAN's South-West Chairman, Bishop Barnabas Akinsanya, stated that while the association supports efforts to improve road safety, the legislation requires careful review. He emphasized that any law restricting fundamental rights must be necessary, proportionate, and consistent with constitutional principles. Prohibiting religious preaching without clear evidence of a public safety threat could unnecessarily restrict religious freedom and potentially lead to public tension.

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However, we respectfully express serious concerns regarding aspects of the proposed Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2026, particularly the provision prescribing sanctions for preaching in commercial buses and the outright prohibition of hawking in such vehicles.

The association also highlighted concerns about the prohibition of hawking, noting that many Nigerians rely on informal trading for their livelihoods. CAN suggested that the government should prioritize policies that create employment and reduce poverty rather than implementing measures that could worsen economic hardship. They appealed to the President to withhold assent to the bill in its current form and called for broader consultations with religious bodies and civil society organizations.

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While government has a constitutional responsibility to ensure public safety, it also has an equal obligation to uphold the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, including freedom of thought, conscience, religion, and expression.