NSCEA Rejects Proposed ₦50,000 Fine for Preaching in Commercial Vehicles
…Cites Constitutional Rights
The Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA) has opposed a provision in the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Amendment Bill, 2026, which proposes a ₦50,000 fine for preaching, hawking, or trading inside commercial vehicles, describing the move as a threat to constitutionally guaranteed religious freedoms.
In a statement issued by the Secretary of the Elders’ Council of the NSCEA, Bishop Professor Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, the organisation said it supports efforts aimed at improving road safety and reducing distractions on highways but rejected any provision that could criminalise peaceful religious evangelism.
The Council questioned the inclusion of preaching alongside hawking and trading in the proposed legislation, arguing that peaceful propagation of religious beliefs is protected under the 1999 Constitution.
Citing Section 38(1) of the Constitution, NSCEA noted that Nigerians have the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, including the liberty to manifest and propagate their faith through worship, teaching and practice.
The group also referenced Sections 39 and 40, which guarantee freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
According to Adesanya-Davies, lawmakers should prioritise stronger measures against insecurity, kidnapping, hostage-taking and violent crimes rather than enacting laws that may restrict religious activities.
The Council maintained that preaching conducted peacefully, without coercion, obstruction or actions capable of endangering public safety, should not be treated as a criminal offence merely because it occurs in a commercial vehicle.
While acknowledging the need for safe and orderly transportation, NSCEA suggested that any regulations should target conduct that genuinely poses risks to road users rather than imposing a blanket restriction on religious preaching.
The group urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to withhold assent to the bill in its current form and called on the National Assembly to review the contentious provision to ensure alignment with constitutional rights and democratic values.
NSCEA also appealed to Christian leaders and believers across the country to engage the issue peacefully and through lawful democratic channels, while reaffirming its commitment to religious liberty, constitutional democracy, peaceful coexistence and the rule of law in Nigeria.
