CAN Opposes Proposed Ban On Preaching In Commercial Vehicles, Cites Constitutional Rights

CAN Opposes Proposed Ban on Preaching in Commercial Vehicles, Cites Constitutional Rights The Christian Association of Nigeria CAN, South-West region, has opposed the proposed ban on preaching inside commercial vehicles, arguing that the measure could infringe on Nigerians’ constitutional rights to freedom of religion and expression. The group called for a review of the legislation before it receives presidential assent. CAN’s position follows the Senate’s passage of the Federal Road Safety Corps (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which proposes a ₦50,000 fine for anyone convicted of hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles. The bill also prescribes a ₦50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both for motorists who refuse to cooperate with FRSC officials during roadside breath tests conducted on reasonable suspicion. In a statement signed by its South-West Chairman, Bishop Barnabas Akinsanya, CAN acknowledged the government’s responsibility to promote road safety but maintained that any law capable of limiting fundamental freedoms must be carefully scrutinised to ensure it is necessary, proportionate and consistent with the Constitution. The association warned that banning religious preaching without evidence that it poses a direct threat to public safety could create unnecessary tension and undermine religious liberty. The association also expressed concern over the proposed ban on hawking in commercial vehicles, arguing that many Nigerians rely on informal trading for their livelihoods amid economic hardship. It urged the government to prioritise job creation, poverty reduction, improved public transportation and enhanced security rather than adopting punitive measures against vulnerable citizens. CAN appealed to President Bola Tinubu to withhold assent to the bill in its current form and encourage broader consultations involving religious organisations, civil society groups, legal experts, transport unions and road safety professionals. It said such engagement would help produce legislation that strengthens road safety while safeguarding the constitutional rights and dignity of Nigerians.