PFN defies FRSC bill, vows to keep preaching in buses nationwide

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) says it will continue preaching inside commercial buses despite a proposed amendment to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Act that introduces a ₦50,000 fine for hawking, trading, or preaching in public vehicles. Speaking on Channels Television, PFN President Bishop Wale Oke declared that Christians would not stop evangelising, even if authorities move to enforce the law, calling any restriction an infringement on constitutional religious freedom.

The controversy stems from the FRSC Amendment Bill, 2026, which senators say does not create a new ban but retains a provision that has existed since the FRSC Establishment Act of 2007 (Item 36 of the Second Schedule, now Item 49) and is also part of the National Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (Regulation 220). Lawmakers insist the measure targets commuter safety, not religious expression, and note the bill originated from the House of Representatives, not the Senate Leader.

For Nigerians, this means that while the fine remains lawful, enforcement against preaching in buses has not changed. Commuters may still encounter evangelists on routes, and those who preach risk the existing penalty if apprehended. Knowing the distinction between a proposed change and existing regulation helps assess whether the debate is about new restrictions or the continuation of current rules.

Will you support the right to preach in public transport despite possible fines, or do you believe stricter enforcement is needed for a safer, distraction‑free commute?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/08/05/frsc-amendment-bill-we-will-keep-preaching-pfn-defies-proposed-ban/