The Enugu State Government has issued a 90-day ultimatum to all churches and mosques within its territory to dismantle outdoor loudspeakers and install soundproofing systems.
The directive was announced on Thursday, following a stakeholders’ meeting convened to address the escalating issue of noise pollution.
The meeting, organized by the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), brought together religious leaders, government officials, and media representatives.
Following the discussions, ECTDA Chairman Uche Anya announced the ultimatum, stating: “From now to the next three months every church and mosque must remove outside loudspeakers and begin to install soundproof (acoustic) in their worship centres” (sic).
Anya emphasized the severity of the problem, stating: “Noise pollution from Independence Layout to GRA, from GRA to Trans-Ekulu, from Trans-Ekulu to Agbani Road, from Agbani Road to Abakpa Nike, from Abakpa Nike to Ugwuaji, from Ugwuaji to name it to Mayor people are in pains” (sic).
Anya revealed that his office has been inundated with over 1,000 complaints about noise pollution from various sources, including churches, mosques, and businesses.
“I have been in this office for one year and in the last year we have received over a thousand petitions complaining about noise pollution,” he added (sic).
The government’s decision is part of a broader effort to improve the state’s urban environment. In 2023, similar directives were issued to nightclubs, beer parlors, and other entertainment establishments to reduce noise levels in residential areas.
