Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State is facing backlash from Ifeanyi Ejiofor, the lead counsel for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), over his recent decision to ban public preaching across the state.
The controversial directive, introduced last week, aims to tackle noise pollution and promote public order by prohibiting street preaching and other outdoor religious activities.
However, the move has sparked outrage among various groups, with Ejiofor calling it a violation of fundamental religious rights.
In a statement released on Sunday, Ejiofor criticized the policy, accusing Governor Soludo of infringing on citizens’ constitutional rights.
“The ban on public preaching is not only unlawful but also a blatant violation of Nigerians’ rights to freedom of worship and expression,” Ejiofor asserted.
“Governor Soludo’s action is nothing more than an attempt to silence religious voices under the pretense of ensuring order.”
The IPOB lawyer further claimed that the policy unfairly targets religious groups, especially Christians who frequently engage in street evangelism. He urged the governor to reconsider the ban, warning that it could escalate tensions across the state.
“This measure is counterproductive and poorly thought out. Rather than fostering peace, it will only create unnecessary conflict between the government and the people,” Ejiofor added.
Governor Soludo, defending the policy, explained that it was implemented to address growing complaints from residents about excessive noise and disruptions caused by public preaching.
He maintained that the ban was not aimed at any particular religious group but was designed to ensure a peaceful environment for all residents. “We have received numerous complaints from citizens regarding the noise and disorderliness associated with public preaching. This policy is about preserving order and respecting everyone’s right to a peaceful environment,” Soludo stated during a press briefing.
Despite the governor’s clarification, reactions to the ban have been mixed. While some residents have welcomed the decision, citing the need for a more serene and orderly public space, others have condemned it as excessive.
Religious leaders, in particular, have raised concerns over how the policy could affect their religious practices.
Reverend Father Emmanuel Obimma, a well-known cleric in Anambra State, described the ban as “regrettable” and called for dialogue between religious organizations and the government.
“Public preaching is an essential aspect of our faith and outreach efforts. Rather than imposing an outright ban, the government should engage with religious leaders to develop a fair solution that respects both religious practices and public order,” Reverend Obimma said.
The policy has also attracted criticism from human rights groups, with the Civil Liberties Organization (CLO) urging the Anambra State government to reconsider its stance. CLO’s South-East Coordinator, Comrade Aloysius Emeka, warned that the policy could set a harmful precedent for curtailing religious freedoms across Nigeria.
“This decision is a slippery slope. If left unchallenged, it could encourage other state governments to impose similar restrictions, undermining the constitutional rights of citizens,” Emeka remarked.
