TDÂ The Nigerian Senate has dismissed reports suggesting that it is introducing a new law to ban street preaching.
The remarks were contained in a statement issued by the Directorate of Media and Public Affairs, Office of the Leader of the Senate, dated 27 July 2026.
The Senate clarified that the ongoing amendment to the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) Act does not prohibit religious preaching in public spaces.
Provision Already Exists in the FRSC Act
In a press statement, the Senate explained that preaching and hawking inside commercial vehicles have been offences under the FRSC (Establishment) Act since 2007.
It noted that the current amendment does not introduce a new restriction but merely retains the existing provision, which has been renumbered in the amended legislation.
Focus Is Road Safety, Not Religious Freedom
According to the statement, the objective of the provision is to enhance the safety of commuters and other road users.
The Senate stressed that the bill does not outlaw street preaching or any legitimate religious activity conducted in public places.
Senate Leader Not Sponsor of the Bill
The Senate also clarified that the amendment is not a private initiative of the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele.
It stated that the bill originated as a concurrence bill after being amended by the House of Representatives.
It also stated that it requires Senate approval before it can become law, in line with the 1999 Constitution.
Stakeholders Encouraged to Participate
The Senate noted that the legislative process is still ongoing.
It encouraged members of the public and relevant stakeholders to channel their concerns through the appropriate democratic institutions before the amendment process is concluded.
