The Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC) has voiced opposition to a potential change in the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) Act. The proposed amendment could categorize religious preaching within commercial vehicles similarly to street hawking, a move the group finds problematic.
Elder Israel Akinadewo, the president of the OAIC Nigeria Region, emphasized that spiritual messaging should not be equated with commercial ventures. He argued that restricting such activity undermines fundamental constitutional rights regarding religious freedom and expression. While the OAIC advocates for orderly and safe travel on Nigerian roads, it warns that safety regulations must not infringe upon protected civil liberties.
The organization has requested that President Bola Tinubu pause and thoroughly evaluate the bill before granting his approval. Furthermore, the group is calling on the National Assembly to conduct open discussions with religious leaders, civil society members, and other interested parties to refine the legislation. The OAIC maintains that such collaboration is essential to achieving road safety without violating constitutional guarantees. While encouraging preachers to act responsibly and respect public order, the association remains firm in its defense of religious expression within the bounds of the law.
