OGSG seals 3 churches over noise pollution

By Kolawole Olayinka, Abeokuta

The Ogun State government has sealed three churches in Abeokuta over noise pollution .

The churches are Christ Apostolic Church, Fountain of Faith District Headquarters, Gbogunmi, Itedo Alafia Community, Bode Olude, Ambassador of Truth Assembly International, Olorunseye Avenue Ijeun Titun and Salvation Ministries, Olubi Drive Adigbe GRA.

Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Environmental Compliance and Enforcement, Farook Akintunde, stated that the churches were sealed after several dialogue and warnings proved abortive.

Akintunde explained that the Christ Apostolic Church, Gbogunmi, was fond of holding evening and night vigils with loud speakers placed outside premises, adding that the action disturbed the peace of the area.

“The community has not only complained, but has written a strong petition against the church saying the noise pollution emanating from the church is affecting the health of their members.

“All efforts to make the presiding Pastor and the Elders of the church to see reasons to stop the pollution proved abortive saying no serious government will fold its hands as watch such infractions affect the health and well-being of its residents”Akintunde stated.

While emphasising that the Ambassador of Truth Assembly was also found guilty of blaring their loudspeakers at odd times in addition to the constant noise pollution during their services, Akintunde added that worshippers of Salvation Ministries, Adigbe were unruly and rough with government officials when they sealed the church.

He however, cautioned against obstruction of government authorities while carrying out their official duties.

Akintunde urged other religious institutions to oppose noise pollution, stating that the state government will not hesitate to seal up any if found guilty.