Religious leaders have raised concerns about the stance taken by the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, regarding preachers using loudspeakers in public places, particularly markets. The governor criticized the clerics for causing noise pollution and disturbances in public spaces. In a widely circulated video on social media, the governor warned against loud preaching in market squares, stating that it disrupts traders and would result in a fine of N500,000.
Governor Soludo emphasized that marketplaces are not appropriate venues for preaching and urged preachers to use churches for such activities. He emphasized the ban on loudspeakers in markets due to noise pollution effects on people’s eardrums and stressed the importance of respecting public spaces.
However, this directive faced criticism from some religious leaders and social media users who viewed it as a violation of religious freedom. They argued that preaching in public spaces could have positive impacts on society, including reaching individuals who may not attend church and potentially changing lives for the better.
These leaders questioned the governor’s decision to restrict preaching in public areas and suggested alternative solutions such as reducing the volume of sound systems rather than imposing fines. They emphasized the role of preaching in transforming lives and promoting positive behavior among individuals who might be engaged in criminal activities.
Additionally, they called for consultation with Christian stakeholders before implementing such regulations and urged religious bodies to resist any encroachment on their freedom to preach the gospel. Concerns were raised about the selective targeting of religious groups and the need for equal treatment of all activities that generate noise in public spaces.
Overall, the debate highlighted the importance of balancing public order with religious freedoms and the need for constructive dialogue between authorities and religious communities to address such issues effectively.