The Senate has approved the Federal Road Safety Corps (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introducing stiffer penalties for several traffic-related offences, including a proposed N50,000 fine for anyone convicted of hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles.
The legislation, which has been forwarded for presidential
assent, also recommends a N50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both, for
motorists who refuse to cooperate with Federal Road Safety Corps officials
during roadside breath tests carried out on reasonable suspicion.
Passed by the upper chamber on Thursday, the amendment seeks
to strengthen road safety enforcement by increasing sanctions for traffic
offences and promoting better compliance with road regulations across the
country.
Under the new provisions, anyone found engaging in hawking,
trading or preaching inside a commercial vehicle would be committing an offence
and, if convicted, would face a N50,000 fine.
Lawmakers said the provision was introduced to discourage
distractions in commercial vehicles and improve the safety of commuters.
The bill also raises the punishment for driving under the
influence of alcohol or intoxicating drugs from N5,000 to N100,000.
Convicted offenders may also face up to two years in prison
or both the fine and imprisonment.
Motorists who decline to cooperate with FRSC officers
carrying out preliminary roadside breath tests based on reasonable suspicion
would also be liable to a N50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both.
In addition, the proposed amendment increases the penalty
for ignoring traffic lights, road signs, pavement markings and other traffic
control devices to N100,000.
The fine for violating speed limits has also been increased
from N5,000 to N100,000, while reckless driving will now attract a N100,000
fine, a prison term of up to two years, or both penalties.
The revised schedule attached to the bill outlines 52
traffic offences along with their respective penalties.
According to the Senate, the amendment is intended to
strengthen the enforcement powers of the FRSC, encourage greater adherence to
traffic laws and improve safety on roads across the country.
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