By Segun Adewale in Bauchi
The Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC), has expressed grave concern over aspects of the proposed amendment to the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) Bill that reportedly classify preaching in commercial vehicles alongside hawking and other prohibited activities.
OAIC considers it insensitive and inappropriate to equate the peaceful proclamation of the Gospel with commercial hawking. While recognising the need to ensure safety and order on Nigerian roads, the Association maintains that preaching is a constitutionally protected exercise of the rights to freedom of religion and freedom of expression, and should not be treated as a criminal or commercial activity.
This is contained in a press release issued and signed by Elder Israel Akinadewo, FCA, PhD, President, Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC), Nigeria Region and made available to Journalists over the weekend.
The Association noted that for many years, preaching in commercial buses has served as a legitimate avenue for sharing messages of faith, hope, morality, repentance, and peaceful coexistence. Any law that has the effect of criminalising such peaceful religious expression could amount to an unnecessary restriction on the constitutional rights of Nigerians.
OAIC called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, not to assent to the Bill in its present form. The Association also urges the National Assembly to review the relevant provisions through broad consultations with religious bodies, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to ensure that public safety is promoted without undermining the constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion and expression.
OAIC said it remains committed to the rule of law, peaceful coexistence, and responsible religious conduct. The Association encouraged all preachers to carry out their evangelistic activities responsibly, with due regard for public order, while urging the government to safeguard the constitutional freedoms that remain the cornerstone of Nigeria’s democracy.
