Lagos Reads Riot Act To Worship Centres Over Noise Pollution

The Lagos State government, through the State Environmental Protection Agency, LASEPA, has issued a stern warning to worship centres to desist from any act that can cause noise pollution within their environment particularly during the yuletide period.

The General Manager, LASEPA, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi who gave the warning at a stakeholders’ meeting with leadership and members of religious organizations at Alausa, Ikeja maintained that noise emanating from worship places across the state should be minimized considering its impact on public health.

The LASEPA boss said noises emanating from worship places across the state should be minimized considering its impact on public health, emphasized that anyone or worship centre that engage in noise pollution will face the full wrath of the law

The General Manager,  Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA),  Dr. Babatunde Ajayi who spoke at the meeting,  said the importance of collective efforts in finding lasting  solutions to the issue of noise from the worship places  needs the support of religious leaders  so as to  balance freedom of religion with community well-being.

Ajayi highlighted the importance of religious organisations adhering to government laid down  regulations and  principles  in achieving the vision for a noiseless Lagos  that will be the benefit of the general public.

While emphasizing the need for religious centres using soundproof certified by sound engineers , Ajayi advised them to equip their facilities with noise meters to  enable them monitor noise levels within their premises during congregation

The General Manager, who acknowledged the role of religion in human life ,  expressed confidence that a resolution beneficial to all parties can be achieved through collaborative efforts and a determination for a better and healthy  society .

He frowned at a situation where the agency received over 2,500 petitions in weeks against religious houses, warning that they should comply with the state regulations on noise pollution or be caught by law.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters ( Christian), Rev. Bukola Adeleke called for the balance approach that preserved religious freedom and respect for the rights of members of the public.

In his contribution, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters ( Muslim), Alhaji Jebe Abdulahi, emphasised the importance of collaboration between religious organisations and the government in  finding  lasting  solutions to the issue  of noise pollution in Lagos state