Anambra Governor Cracks Down On Loud Preaching In Markets, Threatens ₦500,000 Fine

The Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has issued a stern warning to roadside preachers using loudspeakers in public spaces, particularly markets, accusing them of causing noise pollution and disturbing residents. Soludo stated that violators of the noise pollution order would face a ₦500,000 fine.

A viral video circulating on social media shows the governor confronting an unidentified roadside preacher at a market, advising him to preach in a church or rent an open field. Soludo emphasized that those interested in listening to the preacher would seek him out there.

Addressing traders at a market believed to be Ochanja Market in Onitsha, the governor reiterated, “If you want to preach the word of God, go to your church. You are causing noise pollution here. You cannot come to a marketplace and disturb everyone.

“This is a marketplace, not a church. You are violating the law. You cannot take over a public space and turn it into a church. Otherwise, you will be charged for using this space.

“We have banned loudspeakers in markets due to noise pollution, which affects people’s eardrums. You cannot force people to listen to your preaching. We are cracking down on fake pastors and prophets in Anambra.”

Oyenike Oyeniyi