The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has expressed concern over the proposed provision in the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which would impose a ₦50,000 fine on persons convicted of preaching, hawking, or trading inside moving commercial passenger vehicles, if the bill is eventually signed into law.
While CDHR acknowledges the legitimate objective of promoting road safety and reducing distractions for drivers, we are concerned that criminalizing or imposing severe financial penalties on economically vulnerable Nigerians does not address the root causes of these activities.
Millions of Nigerians are grappling with unemployment, rising inflation, poverty, and an increasing cost of living. For many, hawking is not a matter of choice but a means of survival. Public policy should respond to these socio-economic realities with compassion, fairness, and practical solutions rather than measures that may deepen hardship for those already struggling to make ends meet.
The National Assembly should devote greater legislative attention to the pressing challenges confronting the nation. Nigerians expect lawmakers to enact laws that strengthen national security, combat violent crime, create employment opportunities, reduce poverty, improve education and healthcare, and stimulate economic growth. These are the issues that most directly affect the lives and well-being of citizens.
Road safety is undoubtedly an important public interest. However, achieving safer roads should involve a balanced approach that combines public education, effective traffic management, enforcement of existing traffic regulations, and proportionate penalties where necessary. Measures that disproportionately affect low-income earners should be carefully reconsidered.
CDHR therefore calls on the National Assembly and the Executive to ensure that any reform of road traffic laws is evidence-based, proportionate, and respectful of the constitutional rights and socio-economic realities of Nigerians. We urge policymakers to prioritize legislation that tackles insecurity, unemployment, and poverty, while protecting the dignity and welfare of all citizens.
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights remains committed to promoting policies and legislation that uphold human rights, social justice, the rule of law, and good governance.
Signed:
Comrade Debo Adeniran
President
Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR)
Comrade Deacon Jeremiah Onyibe
National Publicity Secretary CDHR
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