Northern Christians fault bill on preaching in vehicles, urge National Assembly to focus on insecurity, poverty
The chairman of the Northern Christian Association (NCA) has criticized a proposed bill that would restrict preaching in commercial vehicles, calling it a misplaced priority that threatens constitutional rights to freedom of expression and religion.
Reverend Joseph Hayab said the National Assembly should focus on worsening insecurity, poverty, hunger and other pressing national challenges instead of debating a bill aimed at stopping citizens from preaching in vehicles.
Hayab questioned whether lawmakers understand their constitutional responsibilities, arguing that the Constitution guarantees every Nigerian the right to freely practice, express and propagate their faith.
“I ask myself whether our National Assembly really understands what it means to be lawmakers. At a time like this in Nigeria, they are concerned about a law to prevent people from preaching in vehicles,” he said Monday in an interview with BusinessDay via WhatsApp audio message.
Preaching, playing music or sharing words of encouragement inside a vehicle does not hinder movement or threaten road safety, Hayab said.
If the proposal originated from road safety authorities, it would suggest a misunderstanding of road regulations, he said, noting that vehicles are fitted with radios and audio systems to provide information, encouragement and entertainment, provided they do not distract drivers.
Hayab acknowledged that some individuals may engage in inappropriate conduct while preaching in public transport, but said many preachers offer prayers, encouragement and safety messages that comfort passengers.
He said lawmakers should distinguish between isolated misconduct and legitimate religious expression instead of imposing a blanket restriction.
The association chairman accused the National Assembly of neglecting critical national issues while pursuing legislation that could infringe on fundamental rights.
“They have not cared about insecurity, poverty or hunger. Their concern is merely preaching,” he said.
Hayab also cited reports of alleged budget irregularities and controversial allocations for places of worship in the National Assembly, which he said have raised concerns about transparency and national unity.
He urged lawmakers to thoroughly scrutinize bills and ensure that proposed legislation aligns with the Constitution and reflects the country’s priorities.
Hayab called on Christian leaders to engage their representatives and said the proposed bill should be withdrawn because it would unnecessarily restrict freedom of religion and expression.
He also appealed to President Bola Tinubu not to assent to any legislation that would curtail citizens’ constitutional rights, saying Nigerians must remain free to peacefully share and practice their faith in accordance with the law.
