Edo State government gives churches and mosques up to March 31 to install soundproof cladding

CHURCHES and mosques operating in Edo State that do not meet the state’s guidelines on noise pollution including a regulation that they must install soundproof cladding will be sealed by March 31 this year.

Under a new set of directives introduced to combat the noise pollution menace the Edo State government has said that churches, mosques, event centres, clubs, lounges and other public spaces must meet new stringent guidelines. A joint task force comprising officials of the Edo State Ministry of Physical Planning, Housing, Urban and Regional Development and the Ministry of Environment and Sustainability has been serving notices to facilities.

In their notice, they have been intimating local residents that a 90-day grace period has been granted for those affected to install soundproof materials in their facilities. Isoken Omo, the Edo State commissioner for physical planning, housing, urban and regional development, said the notices convey the agreement reached by the stakeholders.

Ms Omo said: “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."