From Ifeoma Ejiofor
The Anambra State governor, Prof Charles Soludo has issued a firm directive against street preaching with loudspeakers, warning that violators will face a fine of ₦500,000.
A video of the governor confronting a roadside preacher in a market went viral on social media platform, in the footage, Gov Soludo was seen instructing the preacher to stop disturbing traders and the public with loud sermons, emphasizing that noise pollution laws must be respected.
He made it clear that religious activities should take place within church premises or designated open spaces, where those interested can willingly attend. “If you want to preach, go to a church. Those who want to listen will come to you; you cannot force people in the market to hear your message,” Soludo said.
The governor stressed that public spaces cannot be turned into churches and reiterated the government’s stance against noise pollution in markets. He warned that enforcement efforts would continue, particularly against what he described as “fake pastors and prophets” operating in the state.
Gov Soludo cracks down on street preaching, imposes ₦500,000 Fine
From Ifeoma Ejiofor
The Anambra State governor, Prof Charles Soludo has issued a firm directive against street preaching with loudspeakers, warning that violators will face a fine of ₦500,000.
A video of the governor confronting a roadside preacher in a market went viral on social media platform, in the footage, Gov Soludo was seen instructing the preacher to stop disturbing traders and the public with loud sermons, emphasizing that noise pollution laws must be respected.
He made it clear that religious activities should take place within church premises or designated open spaces, where those interested can willingly attend. “If you want to preach, go to a church. Those who want to listen will come to you; you cannot force people in the market to hear your message,” Soludo said.
The governor stressed that public spaces cannot be turned into churches and reiterated the government’s stance against noise pollution in markets. He warned that enforcement efforts would continue, particularly against what he described as “fake pastors and prophets” operating in the state.
Meanwhile, a government official, Mazi Okpala in a reaction said, ” Gov Soludo’s roadside encounter with a preacher should not be misunderstood as a clamp down on churches or evangelism, many people may not know that there was something called “Noise pollution” punishable under *Sections 8(1,4b) and 9(1,2) of the Public Health Laws of Anambra State, 2006.
“As at matter of fact, this law was made actionable against a church in the year 2019 by a Magistrate Court in Nnewi.
“Evangelism can be done without constituting public nuisance or infringing on people’s right to public peace and health.”