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The Lagos State Government has shut down the All Christians Gathering Ministry in Surulere over alleged noise pollution following a complaint by a resident of the neighbourhood.

The state government said the closure followed an investigation which established that the church was violating environmental regulations and creating a nuisance for residents through excessive noise from its premises.

The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed the development in a statement shared on his X account on Sunday.

According to Wahab, the ministry initiated an investigation after receiving a complaint from a resident concerning the level of noise emanating from the church.

He explained that officials of the ministry visited the premises to assess the situation and determine whether the religious organisation was complying with the state’s environmental standards.

The investigation reportedly established that the church was breaching applicable environmental regulations, prompting the government to take enforcement action.

Wahab said the decision to shut the facility was necessary to address the disturbance and protect the rights of residents to enjoy a peaceful and healthy environment.

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The commissioner reiterated the government’s commitment to enforcing environmental laws across Lagos State, regardless of the nature or status of the establishments involved.

The development forms part of the state government’s broader efforts to address noise pollution, which has remained a concern in several residential and commercial communities across Lagos.

Religious centres, entertainment venues, event facilities and commercial establishments have frequently faced complaints over excessive noise, particularly where loudspeakers and sound equipment are operated without adequate consideration for surrounding residents.

The Lagos State Government has maintained that religious activities and other social gatherings must comply with established environmental regulations to prevent disturbances and protect public health.

Noise pollution, particularly when prolonged or excessive, has been associated with sleep disruption, stress and other health concerns, making effective regulation important in densely populated communities.

The latest enforcement action also highlights the importance of residents reporting environmental violations through appropriate government channels.

Wahab urged establishments operating within the state to observe environmental standards and ensure their activities do not constitute a nuisance to neighbouring communities.

The government did not immediately disclose whether the church would be permitted to reopen after meeting specified environmental requirements or whether additional sanctions would be imposed.

The closure underscores the Lagos government’s position that environmental regulations apply to all establishments, including religious institutions, as authorities continue efforts to maintain order and improve the quality of life across the state.