Governor Soludo Bans Open-Air Preaching To Curb Noise Pollution.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has imposed a ban on open gospel preaching, citing noise pollution as the main reason behind the decision.
The announcement follows the recent arrest and release of a pastor who was caught preaching in a marketplace. A viral video captured the moment Governor Soludo personally confronted the preacher in Onitsha, warning that public preaching violated state regulations.
While reaffirming the protection of religious freedom, the governor stressed that such rights should not infringe on the peace and comfort of others. “If you want to preach, go to your church and preach. You can’t come to the open market to disturb others in the name of preaching,” he stated.
Soludo further emphasised that exercising fundamental rights must not contribute to noise pollution or disrupt public order. As part of the new regulation, offenders could face arrest and fines of up to N500,000.
The state government’s crackdown on noise pollution forms part of a broader initiative to eliminate fake native doctors and fraudulent prophets operating in Anambra.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions among residents. While some have welcomed the move as a necessary step to reduce noise pollution, others have expressed concerns, arguing that the ban restricts religious freedom.
With enforcement measures now in place, the implementation of the policy is expected to shape public discourse in the coming weeks.