Lagos closes over 350 religious sites due to noise pollution
The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) has announced the closure of over 352 religious facilities, including churches and mosques, over the past year due to noise pollution and other environmental violations.
During a press briefing in Ikeja, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, General Manager of LASEPA, addressed the ongoing challenges in enforcing noise regulations.
“Residents often disregard compliance with regulations,” Ajayi remarked, stressing that noise pollution continues to be a major concern. He added, “While there may be initial compliance after enforcement, many quickly revert to their previous behaviors.”
Ajayi emphasized the importance of penalties, including fines and facility closures, to ensure adherence to the regulations.
“There is no city in the world that doesn’t use fines and penalties for violations. There must be consequences for actions,” he stated, recognizing that this issue is not exclusive to Nigeria but a challenge faced globally.
The use of loudspeakers at bus stops and religious venues has been identified as a significant source of noise pollution. Ajayi highlighted, “The religious sector accounts for the majority of complaints due to inadequate control over the establishment of places of worship.”
LASEPA has met with representatives of religious institutions to address the impact of noise pollution, advising them to keep sound levels below 60 decibels during services.
“We conduct these engagements regularly,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining decorum during public worship.
Proofreading by Uchechi Ojo, Sub-editor at Neptune Prime.
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