The Senate on Thursday, passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (Amendment) Bill, 2026.
It proposes a N50,000 fine for anyone convicted of hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles.
The bill, which is awaiting presidential assent, also prescribes a N50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both, for motorists who fail to cooperate with officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps during roadside breath tests conducted on reasonable suspicion.
The amended legislation, passed by the Senate on Thursday, significantly increases penalties for several traffic offences as part of efforts to improve compliance with road safety regulations and reduce road crashes.
Under the proposed law, anyone found hawking, trading or preaching inside a commercial vehicle commits an offence and, upon conviction, will be liable to a ₦50,000 fine.
Lawmakers said the provision was introduced to discourage distractions in commercial vehicles and improve the safety of commuters.
The bill also increases the penalty for driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating drugs from ₦5,000 to ₦100,000. Offenders also risk up to two years’ imprisonment or both.
