Youth Group Criticizes Soludo Over Traditional Institutions Handling
The Anambra State Government has refuted circulating reports that Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo imposed a ban on public evangelism in the state.
In a press release issued to address the misleading claims, the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, clarified that the governor’s recent engagement with an itinerant preacher at Onitsha Market was about enforcing noise pollution regulations, not prohibiting religious activities.
Clarification on Noise Pollution and Evangelism
According to Mefor, Governor Soludo’s statements were misinterpreted. The governor referenced the Public Health Law 2006, which explicitly prohibits noise pollution, including the use of loudspeakers in public spaces such as markets. However, this does not equate to banning evangelism or religious gatherings.
He stated, “Governor Soludo emphasized that noise pollution, not evangelism, is the concern. The Public Health Law 2006 prohibits excessive noise in public places, ensuring a peaceful environment for all. Preachers are advised to conduct their activities in churches or designated areas where people can voluntarily gather and listen without disrupting business operations.”
Legal Framework on Noise Pollution in Anambra
Dr. Mefor referenced Sections 8(1,4b) and 9(1,2) of the Anambra State Public Health Law 2006, which penalize noise pollution. He also noted a legal precedent where a magistrate court in Nnewi ruled against a church in 2019 for violating noise pollution laws.
Government’s Stance on Public Preaching
The commissioner urged the public to disregard false reports suggesting that Governor Soludo had banned evangelism. Instead, he encouraged citizens to comply with existing noise control laws while respecting the rights of others.
For more details on noise pollution regulations and public health policies, refer to Nigeria’s Public Health Laws.
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