Governor Soludo Addresses Misinterpretation of Market Preaching Incident

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has clarified that his recent actions were aimed at curbing noise pollution, not banning evangelism. This comes after a viral video showed the governor confronting a street preacher at Onitsha Market over excessive noise.

In the video, Soludo reminded the preacher of the state’s Public Health Law, which prohibits noise pollution in public spaces. He advised the preacher to relocate to a church or designated area, warning that violators could face a fine of ₦500,000.

The incident sparked mixed reactions, with some accusing the governor of infringing on the constitutional right to freedom of worship. However, the state government has dismissed these claims, stating that Soludo’s actions were misinterpreted.

Anambra State Government Issues Official Statement

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, clarified the governor’s position. He emphasized that Soludo’s concern was solely about noise pollution, not evangelism.

“The governor’s remarks were wrongly interpreted as a ban on evangelism,” Mefor said. “His focus was on enforcing the Anambra State Public Health Law 2006, which prohibits excessive noise in public places, including markets.”

The commissioner explained that the law aims to maintain public order and protect citizens from unnecessary disturbances. He urged residents to comply with the law and respect the rights of others.

Understanding the Anambra State Public Health Law 2006

The Anambra State Public Health Law 2006 is a legal framework designed to regulate public health and safety. Among its provisions is the prohibition of noise pollution in public spaces.

The law specifically targets activities such as preaching with loudspeakers in markets and other inappropriate locations. It encourages preachers to conduct their activities in churches or designated areas where people can willingly participate without disrupting others.

This law is not new. In 2019, a magistrate’s court in Nnewi upheld it against a church that violated noise pollution regulations. The court’s decision reinforced the state’s commitment to maintaining public order and protecting citizens’ well-being.

Mixed Reactions from Religious Leaders and Activists

The governor’s actions have drawn mixed reactions from religious leaders and human rights activists. Some have accused him of suppressing religious freedom, while others support his efforts to enforce the law.

A prominent religious leader in the state, who preferred to remain anonymous, stated, “While we understand the need to maintain order, the government must ensure that its actions do not infringe on the rights of citizens to practice their faith.”

On the other hand, a human rights activist commended the governor for upholding the law. “Noise pollution is a serious issue that affects public health. The governor’s actions are a step in the right direction,” the activist said.

Historical Context: Noise Pollution in Anambra State

Noise pollution has been a long-standing issue in Anambra State, particularly in bustling markets like Onitsha. Traders, residents, and commuters have often complained about the excessive noise from preachers, musicians, and other sources.

In 2018, the state government launched a campaign to address the problem. The campaign involved public awareness programs and stricter enforcement of the Public Health Law. However, compliance has been inconsistent, leading to recurring issues.

The recent incident involving Governor Soludo highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing public order with individual rights. It also underscores the need for continuous education and enforcement to ensure compliance with the law.

What Does This Mean for Anambra Residents?

For residents of Anambra State, the governor’s actions serve as a reminder of the importance of adhering to the Public Health Law. While evangelism and public preaching are not banned, they must be conducted in a manner that does not disrupt public order or infringe on the rights of others.

The state government has urged citizens to report cases of noise pollution to the appropriate authorities. It has also promised to intensify efforts to educate the public about the law and its benefits.

Conclusion: Striking a Balance Between Order and Freedom

Governor Soludo’s clarification has shed light on the delicate balance between maintaining public order and respecting individual freedoms. While his actions were aimed at curbing noise pollution, they have sparked an important conversation about the role of government in regulating public spaces.

As Anambra State continues to grow and develop, it is crucial for residents to work together with the government to create a peaceful and orderly environment. By complying with the Public Health Law and respecting the rights of others, citizens can contribute to the overall well-being of the state.

The state government has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the law while ensuring that the rights of all citizens are protected. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this balance will be maintained in the long term.

Related Stories

• Anambra State Launches Campaign Against Noise Pollution (2018): In 2018, the Anambra State government launched a campaign to address noise pollution in public spaces. The campaign included public awareness programs and stricter enforcement of the Public Health Law.
• Court Upholds Noise Pollution Law Against Church in Nnewi (2019): In 2019, a magistrate’s court in Nnewi upheld the Anambra State Public Health Law against a church that violated noise pollution regulations. The court’s decision reinforced the state’s commitment to maintaining public order.
• Residents React to Governor Soludo’s Enforcement of Noise Pollution Laws: Residents of Anambra State have expressed mixed reactions to Governor Soludo’s enforcement of noise pollution laws. While some support his actions, others have raised concerns about the potential infringement on religious freedom.

By addressing these issues head-on, the Anambra State government aims to create a harmonious environment where the rights of all citizens are respected.