Senate Proposes ₦50,000 Fine for Preaching, Hawking Inside Public Buses

The Nigerian Senate is considering legislation that would prohibit preaching, hawking and other forms of unsolicited activities inside commercial buses across the country, with offenders facing a fine of up to ₦50,000 upon conviction.

The proposed legislation is aimed at promoting order, improving passenger safety and reducing distractions in public transportation. Lawmakers argue that many commuters have repeatedly complained about unsolicited preaching, aggressive hawking and persistent solicitation during their journeys.

Under the bill, individuals who engage in religious preaching, commercial hawking or any other unauthorized activities inside public buses could face financial penalties if found guilty of violating the law.

Supporters of the proposal believe the measure will help create a more peaceful and comfortable commuting environment while reducing incidents of harassment and disturbance experienced by passengers.

However, the proposal has already sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians. While some citizens support efforts to regulate activities in commercial vehicles, others argue that the bill could infringe on constitutional rights, particularly the freedoms of expression and religion.

Critics have also questioned whether existing laws are sufficient to address public nuisance without introducing additional penalties.

The bill is expected to undergo further legislative scrutiny before any final decision is reached. If eventually passed by the National Assembly and signed into law by the President, it would establish new rules governing conduct inside public transportation across Nigeria.