By Daniel Okonkwo
Anambra State, created on August 27, 1991, has been the pillar of light, pliability, commerce, and progress, shaped by leaders who have governed with vision and commitment. The role of any state government is primarily to improve the lives of its citizens by focusing on key areas such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, security, environmental protection, and economic development. While policies are necessary for maintaining order, leadership should always prioritize the overall well-being of the people.
Recently, Governor Chukwuma Soludo made headlines with his ban on public preaching in marketplaces, citing noise pollution as the reason for his directive. He warned that violators would face a ₦500,000 fine. This move, captured in a viral video, has sparked mixed reactions—while some residents welcome the initiative to curb noise pollution, many believe it is an excessive restriction on religious freedom.
Celebrated legal expert Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor condemned the outright ban on public preaching, raising serious constitutional and moral concerns. Section 38(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended in 2023) guarantees the right to freedom of religion, including public and private worship. Furthermore, the Supreme Court ruling in Lagos State Govt & Ors v. Abdulkareem & Ors (2022) LPELR-58517(SC) reinforced this right, stating that individuals are entitled to manifest and propagate their religious beliefs in any lawful manner. Soludo’s sweeping restriction on religious expression in public spaces appears to overstep this constitutional boundary.
Beyond the constitutional implications, the decision to impose a hefty ₦500,000 fine on preachers appears harsh, especially in a state facing economic hardship and insecurity. A government genuinely interested in governance should focus on pressing issues such as infrastructural development, job creation, security, and poverty alleviation rather than placing undue restrictions on religious activities.
Governor Soludo, during his election campaign, promised to transform Anambra State into a model of economic prosperity—often likening his vision to making Anambra the “Dubai of Africa.” However, the people of Anambra are still waiting for this promise to materialize. While governance is universal.
Anambra’s road networks remain in dire need of rehabilitation. Many rural areas still suffer from poor accessibility, making transportation of goods and services difficult. The promise to modernize infrastructure must be upheld with clear, tangible projects that benefit all. Instead of focusing on banning street preachers, the state should prioritize fixing dilapidated roads, building modern transportation systems, and investing in sustainable urban planning.
One of the biggest challenges facing Anambra today is insecurity, particularly kidnappings, armed robbery, and the activities of unknown gunmen. Traders and business owners need a safe environment to operate, and citizens should feel secure in their communities. The focus should be on tackling crime, strengthening local security measures, and working closely with law enforcement agencies to protect lives and property.
Rather than imposing heavy fines on citizens, the government should create economic opportunities. Anambra has a thriving entrepreneurial spirit, with major markets such as Ochanja, Main Market, Nnewi, and Nkpor, among others, playing significant roles in Nigeria’s commerce. Encouraging investments, supporting small businesses, and fostering industrial growth should be top priorities. The government must explore ways to attract investors and empower local businesses to create jobs.
Education is a critical pillar of development. Anambra has produced some of Nigeria’s finest intellectuals, yet the state must do more to modernize public schools, improve teachers’ welfare, and provide vocational training for youths. This will equip young people with skills that can drive economic self-sufficiency and reduce unemployment.
Quality healthcare is still inaccessible to many residents, particularly in rural areas. Government hospitals need urgent investment in modern facilities, better funding, and efficient management to ensure that citizens receive adequate medical care. Instead of policing street preachers, more attention should be paid to ensuring that Anambra’s healthcare system serves its people effectively.
While noise pollution is a legitimate concern, addressing it should not come at the cost of fundamental rights. Governor Soludo’s administration should consider more balanced solutions—such as designated preaching zones, time restrictions, and sound regulations—rather than imposing blanket bans and excessive fines. Governance should be about dialogue, not dictates.
The success of a leader is measured not by how much control they exert over citizens but by how well they fulfill their promises and improve lives. The people of Anambra voted for development, security, and economic growth—not unnecessary crackdowns on religious and cultural expressions. Governor Soludo must shift his focus back to the priorities that truly matter.
Anambra State deserves progress, not policies that sideline the needs of the people. It’s time to fulfill the promise of making Anambra the Dubai of Africa—not just in words, but in action.
Daniel Okonkwo
Profiles International Human Rights Advocate
