Gov Soludo bans preaching in markets, imposes N500,000 fine

Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has imposed a N500,000 fine on those using loudspeakers to preach in public places like market places.

Soludo said such preaching causes noise pollution and disturbing residents.

Addressing traders at Ochanja Market in Onitsha, the governor charged preachers to go to church.

He said, “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.

“If you want to preach, go to a church. Those who want to listen will come to you; you cannot force people in the market to hear your message.

“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.

“You will pay ₦500,000 because we cannot allow this. 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.”