The Senate has passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introducing stiffer penalties for several traffic offences, including a proposed ₦50,000 fine for anyone convicted of hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles.
The bill, which is awaiting President Bola Tinubu’s assent, is aimed at strengthening road safety enforcement, improving compliance with traffic regulations and reducing road crashes across the country.
Under the proposed law, individuals found hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles will be liable, upon conviction, to a ₦50,000 fine. Lawmakers said the provision is intended to minimise distractions and improve passenger safety.
The legislation also raises the penalty for driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating drugs from ₦5,000 to ₦100,000. Convicted offenders could also face up to two years’ imprisonment or both.
Motorists who refuse to cooperate with Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officials during roadside breath tests conducted on reasonable suspicion will face a ₦50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both.
In addition, the bill increases the penalty for disobeying traffic lights, road signs, pavement markings and other traffic control devices to ₦100,000.
Speed limit violations, previously punishable by a ₦5,000 fine, will now attract a ₦100,000 penalty, while reckless driving will carry a ₦100,000 fine, up to two years’ imprisonment, or both.
The amended legislation contains a revised schedule of 52 traffic offences and their corresponding penalties, reflecting the Senate’s efforts to strengthen the FRSC’s enforcement powers and promote safer roads nationwide.
