Road safety remains a shared responsibility between motorists, passengers, pedestrians, and enforcement agencies. In Nigeria, traffic laws are enforced primarily by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) under the provisions of the FRSC (Establishment) Act and the National Road Traffic Regulations.
While there have been public concerns about unlawful enforcement practices, understanding officially recognized traffic offences and their penalties empowers motorists to know their rights and avoid unnecessary penalties.
Below is a detailed list of traffic offences in Nigeria and their corresponding fines as provided under Section 10(4) and 28(2) of the FRSC Act and Regulation 220 of the National Road Traffic Regulations.
List of Traffic Offences and Penalties in Nigeria
1. Failure to Carry a C-Caution
Motorists are required to carry a C-Caution sign in their vehicles.
Penalty: ₦3,000
2. Improper Child Seating Position
Children under 16 years are prohibited from sitting in the front seat of a vehicle.
Penalty: ₦3,000
3. Dangerous Driving
Reckless or irresponsible driving that endangers other road users.
Penalty: ₦50,000
4. Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Penalty: ₦5,000
5. Driving with Expired Tyres or Without a Spare Tyre
Vehicles must have roadworthy tyres and a functional spare.
Penalty: ₦2,000
6. Driving with Worn-Out Tyres
Using tyres that no longer meet safety standards.
Penalty: ₦3,000
7. Excessive Smoke Emission
Vehicles emitting excessive smoke from the exhaust system.
Penalty: ₦5,000
8. Absence of a Speed Limiting Device
Commercial vehicles are required to install speed limiting devices.
Penalty: ₦3,000
9. Failure to Carry a Fire Extinguisher
Every vehicle must have a functional fire extinguisher.
Penalty: ₦3,000
10. Overloading
Carrying passengers or goods beyond the approved vehicle capacity.
Penalty: ₦10,000
11. Preaching or Hawking in Commercial Vehicles
Selling goods or preaching inside a commercial vehicle while in transit.
Penalty: ₦50,000
12. Failure to Wear a Seatbelt
Drivers and passengers must wear seatbelts.
Penalty: ₦2,000
13. Use of Mobile Phone While Driving
Using a handheld mobile device while driving.
Penalty: ₦4,000
14. Defective Side Mirror
Driving with a damaged or non-functional side mirror.
Penalty: ₦3,000
15. Broken Windshield
Driving with a cracked or broken front or rear windshield.
Penalty: ₦2,000
16. Driving Without a Valid Driver’s Licence
Operating a vehicle with an expired licence or without one.
Penalty: ₦10,000
Why Knowing These Traffic Laws Matters
Understanding Nigerian traffic offences and penalties helps motorists:
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Avoid fines and legal consequences
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Ensure road safety compliance
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Protect themselves from unlawful extortion
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Promote responsible driving culture
Motorists are encouraged to request official documentation when issued a fine and verify that any enforcement action aligns with the relevant sections of the FRSC Act and National Road Traffic Regulations.
Legal References
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Section 10(4) and 28(2) of the FRSC (Establishment) Act
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Regulation 220 of the National Road Traffic Regulations
Staying informed about Nigerian traffic laws not only protects you legally but also contributes to safer roads for everyone.
