Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has issued a strong warning against roadside preachers using loudspeakers in public spaces, particularly in markets, stating that their activities contribute to noise pollution and disrupt residents.
A viral video circulating on social media on Saturday captured the governor confronting an unidentified preacher in a market, believed to be Ochanja Market in Onitsha.
Soludo cautioned him against disturbing traders and advised him to relocate his preaching to a church or rent an open field where willing listeners could gather.
“If you want to preach the word of God, go to your church. You cannot come to a marketplace and disturb everyone,” Soludo said while addressing traders.
He reiterated that the state had banned the use of loudspeakers in markets due to the harmful effects of noise pollution, warning that violators would face a N500,000 fine.
“You cannot force people to listen to your preaching. This is a marketplace, not a church. If you want to preach, go to a church. Those who want to listen will come to you,” he added.
The governor emphasised that Anambra State was intensifying efforts to regulate religious activities in public spaces, particularly targeting what he described as “fake pastors and prophets” who exploit public areas for unauthorized preaching.
