Edo Govt. Threatens To Shut Churches, Mosques Without Soundproof

The Edo State government has disclosed that churches, mosques, event centres, clubs, lounges, and other public spaces that does not accord with the state’s guidelines on noise pollution, including installation of soundproof materials will be sealed by March 31.

The notice titled, “Soundproofing Requirement for Your Property” has been served to stakeholders and especially owners of hotels, lounges, clubs, bars, churches, mosques, and event centres, among others across Benin.

In a statement, Commissioner for Physical Planning, Housing, Urban and Regional Development, Isoken Omo, said the notice convey the agreement reached by the stakeholders on a March 31, 2023 deadline for compliance.

A joint task force made up of representatives from the Ministries of Environment and Sustainability and Physical Planning, Housing, Urban and Regional Development of the Edo State has been notifying the affected facilities that they have been given a 90-day grace period to install soundproof materials in their facilities.

The action follows a meeting of stakeholders on October 31, 2022, involving government representatives and affected business owners.

She noted, “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.

“It also became necessary after MPPHURD started receiving incessant complaints and petitions from the general public.”