The Ogun State Government has intensified its campaign against environmental nuisance by sealing a church along Ima Road, Abiola Way, Abeokuta, and a popular nightlife spot in Ota over alleged noise pollution.
The enforcement followed an operation carried out by a task force of the Ministry of Environment, led by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment, Tolu Poviwhede, as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to protect residents from the adverse effects of excessive noise.
Speaking during the exercise, Poviwhede said the action was necessitated by repeated complaints from members of the public, coupled with the failure of the affected establishments to comply with stipulated noise control regulations despite prior warnings.
“Ogun State Government will no longer tolerate activities that endanger the peace, health and well-being of residents,” he said. “We received several complaints about excessive noise from these locations. Despite previous warnings, there was no compliance, hence the enforcement team took decisive action to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all.”
According to him, the church was found to be operating sound equipment far above permissible levels during worship services, while the nightclub in Ota allegedly generated loud music late into the night, disturbing surrounding residential communities.
Poviwhede stressed that the enforcement exercise was not targeted at any religious or business group, noting that environmental protection laws apply uniformly across the state.
“Whether it is a church, mosque, bar or event centre, the law is clear. Everyone must operate within approved environmental standards. Our responsibility is to protect the larger interest of the public,” he said.
He added that the sealed facilities would remain shut until they fully comply with environmental requirements, including operating within approved noise limits. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to the strict enforcement of environmental and public health laws.
Beyond noise control, the special assistant disclosed that the task force also visited popular markets across the Sango Ota axis and Ifo Main Market to enforce compliance with environmental sanitation and urban planning regulations.
During the exercise, traders found operating within road setbacks, medians and pedestrian walkways were directed to vacate such spaces to restore free movement, reduce traffic obstruction and enhance public safety.
The Ogun State Government has repeatedly warned that it will continue enforcement actions across the state to curb environmental violations, urging residents, religious bodies and business operators to cooperate with authorities in promoting a cleaner, safer and more orderly environment.
