LAGOS/Nigeria: In a concerted effort to address the escalating issue of noise pollution within Lagos State, the government convened a pivotal meeting seeking collaboration with religious entities. This proactive move aimed to curb the persistent nuisance caused by excessive noise levels in the urban landscape.
The gathering, which convened various representatives from diverse religious organizations, witnessed an impressive turnout. Facilitated by the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), the event’s central theme underscored the necessity of “Achieving a Noiseless Lagos for a Healthy Citizenry.”
Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, the General Manager of LASEPA, emphasized the imperative for religious institutions and individuals to adhere to existing regulations governing noise pollution in the state. He articulated the primary objective of sensitizing stakeholders on conducting their activities and religious practices in a manner that respects the environment and neighboring communities.
Highlighting the staggering influx of over 2500 complaints from residents concerning noise pollution and environmental transgressions attributed to certain religious practitioners, Ajayi underscored LASEPA’s impartial approach in monitoring and enforcing these regulations without favoritism toward any particular religious denomination.
Ajayi advocated a harmonious coexistence between worship and responsible noise levels, encapsulating this sentiment with the directive, “Stop the Noise, Not the Worship.”
Reverend Bukola Adebiyi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Religion (Christian), and Mr. Abdullahi Jebe, his Islamic counterpart, echoed Ajayi’s sentiments. They urged followers of both faiths to acknowledge the rights of others by mitigating noise pollution and proposed the necessity for extensive workshops and seminars to raise awareness about the perils associated with excessive noise.
Mrs. Olabisi Shonibare, Director of the Noise and Emissions Control Department at LASEPA, shed light on the detrimental effects of noise pollution on the auditory system, stressing the irreparable damage it inflicts upon the ear. Shonibare highlighted LASEPA’s efforts to extend its awareness campaign on noise pollution to event centers and clubs, emphasizing the imperative of religious institutions employing technological measures to monitor noise levels and avoid legal repercussions.
In a show of solidarity, representatives of religious houses pledged to educate their followers on the adverse effects of noise pollution. They affirmed their commitment to collaborating with the state government to achieve the collective goal of fostering a noiseless Lagos.
This collaborative initiative underscores the government’s proactive stance in addressing noise pollution, particularly given recent actions where religious houses and entertainment centers faced closures due to noise-related infractions.
