Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has prohibited the use of loudspeakers for public preaching in markets and other open spaces, citing noise pollution concerns. Violators of the directive will face a fine of ₦500,000.

A viral video on social media showed Soludo personally cautioning a roadside preacher at a market, advising him to relocate his preaching to a church or rented open field.

However, the ban has sparked outrage among clerics, who argue that it infringes on religious freedom. Osazee Williams, International Secretary of the Ecumenical Synods of Bishops, criticized the decision, calling it an attack on Christianity. He emphasized that public evangelism is vital for reaching those who may never attend church.

Similarly, Most Reverend Isaac Olawuyi, Archbishop of the Methodist Church in Lagos, described the policy as a violation of religious rights. He encouraged preachers to defy the order, stating, “If they go out for evangelism and hold crusades, let the governor arrest them and see what happens.”

Despite the criticism, Soludo maintains that the measure is necessary to curb noise pollution and maintain public order.