By: Oguntimehin Oluwafemi John
The man who went to disturb church services with his dogs under the pretext of noise pollution as shown in a trending video has crossed the line. The Social Rights and Christian Leadership Forum (SRCL) is hereby denouncing his actions. Noise pollution does not apply to all sounds. Noise pollution is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as noise levels greater than 65 decibels (dB). More specifically, noise is dangerous above 75 decibels (dB) and uncomfortable above 120 dB. Unwanted or excessive sound can have negative impacts on the environment, wildlife, and public health.
Dr. Hassan Mohammed Garba, a general practitioner in Bauchi backed up the claim that exposure to loud noises can cause hearing loss. Residential areas are required to have standard permitted noise levels of no more than 45 decibels at night and 55 dB during the day. During the day, the standard permitted noise level in industrial zones cannot be more than 90 decibels, and the noise level in commercial areas cannot be higher than 70 decibels. Scholars have stated that in order to lessen noise, stricter legislation and higher levels of compliance and enforcement on environmental practices and land use to reduce noise should be considered.
However, Social Rights and Christian Leadership Forum (SRCLF) whose aims is to address collectives needs, social injustice, leadership problems and to proffers solutions and propelling people for good leaderships position in society also share the same philosophy of Prophet Isaiah as stated in the holy book, Isaiah 62v1 i.e. not to remain silent until things change for good. On this note, Social Rights and Christians Leadership Forum is vehemently against the action of the fellow, who used dogs to disrupt a worship centre’s activity. He took the laws into his hands even though the aforementioned church is guilty of noise pollution. He should have called upon the appropriate authorities to address the matter.
Moreover, what will be the case for all religious houses, Club Houses and other entertainment outlets, which are to operate within enclosed and soundproof environments with regulated use of speakers, giving due consideration to neighboring residents. This will technically reduce the number of internally placed speakers to the barest minimum to address only the congregation and clientele and not the neighborhood. Religious activities are to be carried out in a completely enclosed structure while uncompleted buildings and tents should not be allowed except open air and outdoor activities is being carried out with due authorization from relevant Government agencies. Those activities involving the use of amplifiers and speakers shall hold after due authorization from Environmental Protection Agency without contravening the stipulated approved noise limit for that environment.
While it is true that noise pollution should be used as a basis for the abuse and infringe on the rights of others, those seeking to address should follow the due process of the law. Social Rights and Christians leadership Forum (SRCLF) also calls upon Christian associations and institutions such as Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) to find ways to engage these issues. Therefore, churches need to understand “Noise pollution” and guide against the infringements of the people’s rights, while the society needs not to take laws into their hands in seeking redress. Government needs to massively educate citizens on noise pollution while regulating the activities of all noise polluters.
Oguntimehin Oluwafemi John is National President, Social Rights and Christians Leadership Forum (SRCLF), Lagos, Nigeria. He can be reached on 08097496971.
