Stop noise pollution or face legal action — LASG

*Places worship centres under watch, receives 2,500 petitions in weeks

THE Lagos State Government, through the State Environmental Protection Agency, LASEPA, has warned worship centres to desist from breaching noise pollution law especially during the festive period or face the consequences.

The government frowned at a situation where it received over 2,500  petitions in weeks against religious houses, urging them to comply with the state regulations on noise pollution or face the wrath of the law.

General Manager, LASEPA,  Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, spoke at a stakeholders’ meeting with leadership and members of religious organization at Alausa, Ikeja recently.

According to Ajayi, the meeting aimed at “fostering collaboration and dialogue between the agency and religious leaders to address the  issues surrounding noise pollution and its impact on community well-being.

“The importance of collective efforts in finding lasting solutions to the issue of noise from the worship place need the support of religious leaders to balance freedom of religion with community well-being.”

Ajayi highlighted the importance of religious organisations adhering to government laid down regulations and principles in achieving the vision for a noiseless Lagos that would be the benefit of the general public.  

Ajayi, while acknowledging the role of religion in human life, expressed confidence that a resolution beneficial to all parties can be achieved through collaborative efforts and a determination for a better and healthy society.  

Also, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters ( Christian), Rev. Bukola Adeleke, called for the balance approach that preserved religious freedom and respect for the right of members of the public.

In his contribution, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters (Muslim),  Jebe Abdullahi, stressed the importance of collaboration between religious organisations and the government in finding lasting solutions to the issue of noise pollution in the state.