The Northern States Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reject a proposed amendment to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Act, arguing that it threatens constitutionally protected religious freedoms.
According to a Daily Trust report published on Sunday, July 19, 2026, the FRSC Amendment Bill 2026 proposes a ₦50,000 fine for preaching in commercial buses. NOSCEF said the provision could criminalize peaceful evangelism.
In a statement signed by its chairman, Elder Sunday Oibe, the forum described the proposal as “a dangerous encroachment on the constitutionally guaranteed rights of Nigerians to freedom of religion, freedom of expression, and peaceful propagation of their faith.”
The group also warned that enforcing the provision could create unnecessary religious tension and undermine peaceful coexistence. It urged President Tinubu not to endorse legislation that could deepen national divisions.
While expressing support for road safety reforms, NOSCEF maintained that fundamental rights must be protected. The forum called on lawmakers to review the bill and remove any provisions that restrict lawful religious expression, stressing that Christians have traditionally conducted evangelism peacefully and without coercion.
