Kwara Government has issued a stern warning to religious groups against noise pollution in all areas of the state.
The Commissioner for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Buge, issued the warning in a statement on Wednesday in Ilorin, threatening that anyone or group found wanting of the act would face the full wrath of the law.
Buge said that reports were received from various communities on the rate of noise pollution by religious groups.
“It is imperative that every member of the community gets informed that there is an acceptable noise level in Kwara.
“Any noise beyond normal level by any person, organisation or bodies would be treated as an offence and penalised accordingly.
“Our study and findings have shown that excessive noise is inimical to our health. We, therefore, appeal to our Muslim and Christian faithful to adhere strictly to these guidelines.
“This information becomes relevant at this time when night-based activities are usually undertaken by people of both faiths.
“Our officers are available and accessible to offer necessary help in regulating the noise level in any facility where activities that generate noise are undertaken,” she said.
The commissioner also warned those that trade in noise to get relevant sound-proof materials to fortify their facilities, to enhance compliance with established guidelines.
Buge said that the information had been previously communicated to managers of all such facilities, and the noise level had been set at 55-decibel during the day and 40-decibel at night.
“The commissioner, therefore, felicitates with Muslim faithful, as they get prepared for the end of Ramadan and Eid celebrations”.