Senate Passes Bill for Tougher Traffic Offense Penalties

The Nigerian Senate has approved an amendment bill for the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) aimed at imposing stricter penalties for traffic offenses. The proposed legislation includes a fine of 50,000 Naira for anyone convicted of hawking or preaching inside commercial vehicles.

Additionally, the bill seeks to enhance road safety enforcement by increasing fines and jail terms for various offenses, which are considered significant contributors to road accidents and unsafe driving practices. Key provisions include a 50,000 Naira fine for motorists who refuse roadside breath tests when suspected of alcohol impairment, and a significant increase in penalties for driving under the influence, raising the fine from 5,000 Naira to 100,000 Naira, with potential imprisonment of up to two years.

The bill also proposes fines for disregarding traffic lights and speeding, with penalties reaching 100,000 Naira. This legislative move is part of a broader effort to improve road safety across Nigeria and will require the assent of President Bola Tinubu to become law.