Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has issued a strong warning against roadside preachers using loudspeakers in public places, particularly markets, accusing them of causing noise pollution and disrupting businesses.
The governor stated that anyone caught violating the noise pollution regulation would face a ₦500,000 fine.
A viral video circulating on social media on Saturday captured Governor Soludo confronting an unidentified preacher in a marketplace, warning him to stop disrupting traders with his loud preaching.
In the footage, Soludo advised the preacher to hold his services in a church or rent an open field, stating that those genuinely interested in his message would seek him out.
Addressing traders at Ochanja Market in Onitsha, the governor firmly reiterated his stance:
“If you want to preach the word of God, go to your church. You are causing noise pollution here. You cannot come to a marketplace and disturb everyone.
“Those who want to listen will come to you; you cannot force people in the market to hear your message.
“This is a marketplace, not a church. You are violating the law. You cannot take over a public space and turn it into a church. Otherwise, you will be charged for using this space.”
Governor Soludo’s move has sparked mixed reactions. While some residents support the enforcement of noise pollution laws, others believe it infringes on religious expression.
The governor, however, maintains that regulating noise pollution is necessary to ensure a peaceful and orderly environment, especially in commercial hubs like markets.
With the new regulation in place, roadside preachers in Anambra State may have to rethink their approach or face heavy fines.
