The Lagos State Government has sealed a church, All Christians Gathering Ministry, following complaints from residents over noise pollution from the religious facility to the in its environment.
Environmental officials sealed the premises stating that inhabitants in the area made repeated reports about the church accusing them of making late-night noise that disrupted resident’s sleep.
During the enforcement at the location in Surulere, the officers confirmed that an investigation confirmed the accusation, adding that the unlawful act violated environmental regulations and constituted a nuisance.
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said that the premises was shut on Sunday morning and would remain closed untill further notice.
“We will not tolerate environmental violations or any form of nuisance that disrupts the peace and well-being of residents,” Wahab said.
“All religious institutions, businesses and other establishments are required to comply strictly with environmental regulations. Our enforcement actions will remain firm and decisive. No individual or institution is above the law”
The Commissioner mentioned that the petitioners held that they were resulted to shutting their windows in the heat due to the noise.
He stated that the action forms part of the government’s ongoing crackdown on noise pollution, enforced by it’s Environmental Protection Agency.
The government informed that permissible noise levels in residential areas are set at 55 decibels during the day and 45 decibels at night under state environmental laws.
The agency recalled that it has sealed several churches, hotels, lounges and other businesses across the state for similar breaches, often after failed compliance notices or memoranda of understanding requiring soundproofing and restricted night-time activities.
It warned that the residents to desist from all environmental law contraventions, stressing that neccesary sanctions await erring individuals.