Hawking, preaching in buses, failure to cooperate with FRSC officials attract ₦50,000 fine – Senate

Nigeria's Senate has approved a revised Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Act, introducing substantially higher fines for a range of traffic violations. The amendment, awaiting presidential assent, aims to enhance road safety and enforce compliance with traffic regulations.

Key changes include a new ₦50,000 fine for individuals caught hawking, trading, or preaching inside commercial vehicles. Lawmakers introduced this provision to minimize distractions and improve passenger safety. Additionally, motorists who refuse to cooperate with FRSC officials during roadside breath tests, conducted on reasonable suspicion, will face a ₦50,000 fine or a six-month prison sentence, or both.

The penalties for more serious offenses have also seen a significant increase. Driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating drugs now carries a fine of ₦100,000, or up to two years imprisonment, or both, a substantial jump from the previous ₦5,000 fine. Similarly, ignoring traffic lights, road signs, pavement markings, or other traffic control devices will result in a ₦100,000 fine.

Speeding violations, previously punishable by a ₦5,000 fine, will now attract a ₦100,000 penalty. Reckless driving also carries a ₦100,000 fine, with the possibility of up to two years imprisonment or both. The amended Act now lists 52 traffic violations and their corresponding penalties, reflecting a comprehensive review intended to strengthen the FRSC's enforcement capabilities and improve overall road safety across Nigeria.