CAN Opposes Ban on Preaching in Commercial Vehicles

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), specifically its South-West region, has expressed strong opposition to a proposed ban on preaching inside commercial vehicles as outlined in the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Amendment Bill, 2026, recently passed by the Senate. This bill proposes a fine of N50,000 for individuals convicted of preaching, hawking, or trading in commercial vehicles.

Additionally, it stipulates a fine or imprisonment for motorists who do not comply with FRSC officials during roadside breath tests. In a statement from Bishop Barnabas Akinsanya, the South-West Chairman of CAN, the organization emphasized the need for careful review of the legislation to avoid infringing on citizens' fundamental rights, including freedom of religion and expression.

CAN argued that prohibiting preaching without evidence of a threat to public safety could unnecessarily restrict religious freedom. They urged the President of Nigeria to withhold assent to the bill in its current form and to engage in further consultations with relevant stakeholders to ensure that road safety measures do not compromise constitutional rights.