BREAKING: CAN REJECTS PROPOSED BAN ON PREACHING IN COMMERCIAL VEHICLES, URGES TINUBU TO WITHHOLD ASSENT

CAN REJECTS PROPOSED BAN ON PREACHING IN COMMERCIAL VEHICLES, URGES TINUBU TO WITHHOLD ASSENT


The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), South-West zone, has opposed the proposed ban on preaching inside commercial vehicles, warning that the provision could infringe on the constitutional rights of Nigerians if it becomes law.

The association's reaction followed the passage of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, by the Senate. Among other provisions, the bill proposes a ₦50,000 fine for anyone convicted of hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles.

The proposed legislation also recommends 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.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the South-West Chairman of CAN, Bishop Barnabas Akinsanya, acknowledged the Federal Government's commitment to improving road safety but expressed concerns that parts of the bill could violate citizens' fundamental rights.

According to the association, while government has the responsibility to protect lives and ensure road safety, it must also uphold constitutional rights, including the freedoms of religion, expression, thought and conscience.

CAN argued that legislation capable of restricting these rights should be carefully reviewed to ensure it is necessary, proportionate and consistent with the provisions of the Constitution.

The association warned that prohibiting religious preaching in commercial vehicles without evidence that it poses a direct threat to public safety could create the impression of unnecessary restrictions on religious freedom and generate avoidable public tension.

It also raised concerns over the proposed ban on hawking in commercial vehicles, noting that many Nigerians depend on legitimate informal trading for their daily livelihood.

According to CAN, government should focus on creating employment opportunities, reducing poverty, improving public transportation, strengthening security and enhancing citizens' welfare rather than introducing measures that could worsen economic hardship.

The Christian body appealed to President Bola Tinubu to withhold assent to the bill in its current form and encourage wider consultations with religious organisations, civil society groups, legal experts, transport unions and road safety professionals.

CAN maintained that broader stakeholder engagement would help produce legislation that promotes road safety while protecting the constitutional rights and dignity of Nigerians.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to working with government in advancing justice, peace, constitutional democracy and national development.

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