In a bold move to combat the rising tide of noise pollution, the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) has sealed over 352 facilities, including churches and mosques, over the past year. The crackdown aims to restore some peace in a city that never seems to sleep.


Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, the General Manager of LASEPA, unveiled this startling statistic during a recent media briefing held in Ikeja. He emphasized that the agency’s mission extends beyond mere enforcement; it’s about fostering a culture of compliance among residents who, as he put it, often exhibit "bad behavior" when it comes to following regulations.


"Noise pollution has become a persistent challenge," Ajayi stated. "After we enforce compliance, people seem to obey for a while. But before long, they revert to their old ways, cranking up the volume once again." This cycle of enforcement and disregard creates an exhausting loop for LASEPA, which has to start the process anew after every violation.


Ajayi highlighted that the penalties imposed—fines and closures—are not just punitive measures; they serve as necessary deterrents. “No city in the world operates without consequences for violations. We have to hold people accountable for their actions,” he asserted.


The problem is not confined to Nigeria; it reflects a global trend where individuals often slip back into disruptive behaviors. The use of microphones and loudspeakers, particularly in public spaces and religious gatherings, has emerged as a significant contributor to the chaos. “Even churchgoers are guilty of taking to the streets with loudspeakers, drowning out the serenity of their surroundings,” Ajayi noted.


The religious sector, in particular, has come under scrutiny. “They account for the majority of noise complaints because current regulations offer little control over how religious establishments can be set up,” he explained. Ajayi called for stronger policies to manage this issue, pointing out that some churches and mosques even attempt to operate multiple branches on the same street, amplifying the problem.


In an effort to engage with community leaders, LASEPA has initiated discussions with representatives from various religious organizations. “We stress the importance of maintaining noise levels below 60 decibels during services. It’s not just about decorum; it’s about public health and safety,” Ajayi added.


Despite the challenges, Ajayi remains optimistic. “Our advocacy efforts are ongoing, but the key is cooperation. If we all strive for a more balanced community, we can create a Lagos that is not only vibrant but also respectful of everyone’s right to peace and quiet.”


As Lagos continues its battle against noise pollution, one thing is clear: a collective effort is essential to ensure that the city’s spiritual fervor does not drown out its residents’ peace.