By, springbewsng, Media limited Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor, the legal counsel for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has strongly criticized Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, http://Governor, Chukwuma Soludo,for banning loud public preaching and imposing a N500,000 fine on violators.

In a statement issued on Monday, Ejiofor described the policy as an alarming infringement on religious freedom, warning that it contradicts constitutional rights. He argued that the ban violates Section 38(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion, including public worship and evangelism.

Soludo’s Ban Sparks Controversy

Governor Soludo’s decision has drawn widespread reactions, especially after a viral video showed him confronting a street preacher at Onitsha’s Ochanja Market. In the footage, Soludo declared that marketplaces are not churches and insisted that preachers must conduct their activities in private spaces.

“This is a marketplace, not a church! You cannot take over a public space and turn it into a place of worship. Otherwise, you will pay for it. You will pay N500,000 because we cannot allow this anymore,” the governor stated.

Soludo justified the ban as a move to curb noise pollution, saying street preachers disrupt business activities with loudspeakers. However, Ejiofor argues that rather than an outright ban, the government should focus on regulating public preaching to address concerns without violating religious rights.

Legal and Constitutional Implications

Ejiofor referenced the Supreme Court ruling in Lagos State Govt & Ors V. Abdulkareem & Ors (2022), which upheld citizens’ rights to freely practice and propagate their religion. He warned that Soludo’s policy criminalizes public evangelism, including crusades and outdoor religious gatherings, without proper legal backing.

Call for Reconsideration

The IPOB lawyer urged Soludo to reconsider the ban, emphasizing that Anambra should focus on addressing insecurity and governance issues rather than restricting religious liberties. He cited neighboring states like Abia and Enugu, which manage governance effectively without suppressing religious freedoms.

“In a democratic society, policies must align with justice, fairness, and respect for fundamental rights. The ban on public preaching sets a dangerous precedent that must be revisited,” Ejiofor concluded.

Conclusion

The controversy over Soludo’s preaching ban continues to generate heated debate in Anambra State. While the government argues it is a necessary step to maintain order, critics see it as an attack on religious freedom. With increasing public outcry, it remains to be seen whether the administration will amend or uphold its decision.