Ifeanyi Ejiofor, lead counsel for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has criticized Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State for banning public preaching in the state.
Ejiofor described the move as “another alarming overreach that raises serious concerns about religious freedom.”
According to Ejiofor, the ban tramples on citizens’ rights, particularly Section 38 (1) of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of worship.
He argued that instead of an outright ban, Governor Soludo should have explored ways to regulate and moderate public preaching to address noise pollution concerns.
Ejiofor also questioned the connection between public preaching and the prevailing insecurity in Anambra State, emphasizing that gospel preachers are merely fulfilling their spiritual mandate.
Governor Soludo had imposed a N500,000 fine on defaulters, citing noise pollution and disturbance to residents.
The Soludo-led administration also aims to crack down on “fake pastors and prophets” in the state.