Enugu Set to Enforce Noise-Reduction Policy After 1,000 Complaints Against Churches and Clubs
The Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) has announced that it will begin implementing a comprehensive noise-reduction policy in Enugu city starting from November 15, 2024. This initiative follows an overwhelming number of petitions and complaints—over 1,000—filed by residents against churches, clubs, pubs, and other religious and social groups, accusing them of causing significant noise pollution across the city.
Hon. Uche Anya, the Chairman of ECTDA, revealed this development during a town hall meeting with religious leaders and owners of event facilities. The meeting was organized to discuss effective strategies for reducing noise levels in the city, which aligns with Governor Peter Mbah’s vision of transforming Enugu into a megacity.
The Enugu State Government has been proactive in addressing urban regeneration, having urged nightclubs, beer parlours, and other entertainment establishments in December 2023 to curb noise pollution, particularly in residential areas. The upcoming policy aims to bring noise pollution down to zero percent, as part of the broader Anti-Noise Pollution Policy.
During the town hall, Uche emphasized the importance of this engagement with stakeholders, stating that the objective was not to demolish churches or entertainment centers but to ensure that residential neighborhoods become more peaceful and welcoming. Facility owners were encouraged to incorporate soundproofing measures, such as acoustics, to minimize disturbances to their neighbors.
The policy will be strictly enforced, with the ECTDA prepared to shut down any establishment operating illegally within residential zones. Even those with noise permits from the state government may face sanctions if they fail to comply with the new regulations.
Despite the strict measures, Uche assured that the agency’s approach would be humanitarian, focusing on making Enugu a more livable city for its residents without causing unnecessary harm to any parties involved. Religious leaders from both the Christian and Muslim communities who attended the meeting expressed their readiness to comply with the new directives.
