Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has taken a decisive step to curb noise pollution in public spaces by banning loud preaching in markets and imposing a fine of N500,000 on offenders.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that the move, which has sparked mixed reactions across the state, is part of the governor’s broader effort to restore order and ensure a more business-friendly environment.
In a viral video that surfaced online on Saturday, Soludo was seen confronting a street preacher at a popular market, believed to be Onitsha’s Ochanja Market, ordering him to halt his activities immediately.
“This is a marketplace, not a church! You cannot take over a public space and turn it into a place of worship. Otherwise, you will pay for it. You will pay N500,000 because we cannot allow this anymore,” the governor stated firmly.
Soludo, who has been vocal about enforcing discipline in Anambra’s urban spaces, emphasized that traders and customers should not be subjected to excessive noise under the guise of evangelism.
“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. You are violating the law,” he added.
The governor’s directive has drawn mixed reactions. While some traders and business owners welcomed the ban, describing loud street preaching as “noise terrorism,” others questioned the move, citing religious freedom.
A trader at Ochanja Market, who identified himself as Mr. Emeka, lauded the initiative, saying, “This market is for business, not for church activities.
“ Some of these preachers use loudspeakers as if they are in a crusade, disturbing our customers.”
However, a street preacher, Pastor Uchenna, argued that the policy was an attempt to silence religious expression.
“We are just spreading the gospel. The government should find a way to regulate, not outrightly ban street preaching,” he said.
Soludo, who has been championing environmental reforms, also took a swipe at what he described as “fake pastors and prophets” who exploit religion while disregarding public order.
“We are cracking down on fake pastors and prophets in Anambra. We have banned loudspeakers in markets due to noise pollution, which is affecting people’s eardrums. You cannot force people to listen to your preaching,” he declared.
The governor’s administration has recently introduced multiple policies aimed at restoring order, including the regulation of street trading, enforcement of sanitation laws, and removal of illegal structures.
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