If threats issued by the Edo State Government are taken seriously, then tough times await churches, mosques, and event centres that fail to meet the State’s guidelines on noise pollution, including the installation of soundproof materials in their facilities.
The March 31, 2023 ultimatum, which comes with an order to shut down such places, also affects clubs, lounges, and other public spaces whose activities constitute what the government describes as environmental pollution in the State.
According to State officials, the directive was part of agreements reached at a stakeholders’ meeting involving the government and owners of establishments that require noise control.
Already, the joint task force, comprising officials of the Edo State Ministry of Physical Planning, Housing, Urban and Regional Development (MPPHURD) and the Ministry of Environment and Sustainability, has served notices to churches, mosques, and other affected premises, intimating them of a 90-day grace period to install soundproof materials in their facilities.
The notice cited by Forefront News read thus; “The move is sequel to a stakeholders’ meeting between government officials and owners of establishments requiring noise control, which was held on October 31, 2022. Soundproofing Requirement for Your Property”
A statement by the Commissioner for Physical Planning, Housing, Urban and Regional Development, Isoken Omo, explained that the notices convey the agreement reached by the stakeholders with March 31st, 2023 as deadline for compliance.
She further stated that; “The facility owners have a 90-day grace period. The notices are also accompanied by a leaflet to guide on soundproofing specifications and materials, as well as the role of the Ministry of Environment and Sustainability in providing further guidance on soundproofing requirements.
“The move to bring such facilities within acceptable noise level is encoded in the National Environmental (Noise Standard and Control) Regulation Law F.R.N Part V General 13-1308 17 – (2) and the extant Town Planning Laws.”
The Commissioner, who gave further explanation on the current y government’s moves, said the directive “also became necessary after MPPHURD started receiving incessant complaints and petitions from the general public.”
