Reasons Lagos State Shuts Down 352 Facilities, Including Religious Houses
By DAYO ADESULU
LASEPA Cracks Down on Noise Pollution as Over 350 Facilities Face Closure in the Past Year
The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) has announced the closure of over 352 facilities, including religious houses, over the past year due to violations of noise pollution and other environmental infractions. This was revealed by LASEPA’s General Manager, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, during a media briefing in Ikeja, Lagos.
Dr. Ajayi highlighted that many residents and organizations, especially religious establishments, have struggled to comply with noise regulations, contributing to recurring violations. “One major challenge of noise pollution is that after enforcement, they comply for a while, but soon after, they return to the same offence,” Ajayi said, pointing out that fines and shutdowns are often the only temporary deterrents.
Ajayi emphasized that noise pollution, particularly from the use of microphones at bus stops and religious houses, remains a significant concern. He noted that religious houses contribute the most to noise violations, with little control under current regulations on how such establishments can be set up. “It takes a strong-willed policy to control this,” he added, referencing the numerous discussions LASEPA has had with religious leaders about maintaining acceptable noise levels.
Ajayi called for stricter policies and consistent enforcement to address this growing issue, noting that public awareness campaigns continue to be an essential part of their strategy.
