By Obiageli Nwankwo
The Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, has reaffirmed the commitment of the present administration to protecting the learning environment of schools across the state, following a reported case of noise pollution affecting Promise International School, Onitsha.
Prof. Chuma-Udeh said this while addressing a petition submitted to her office by the Proprietress of Promise International School, Lady Ngozi Grace Udeh, concerning persistent noise disturbances allegedly emanating from Divine Dominion Prophetic Ministry, Onitsha, located opposite the school.
According to the petition, the church whose auditorium was constructed in 2024 has recently intensified its activities, generating excessive noise during school hours, particularly on Tuesdays between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
The commissioner noted that such disturbances disrupt teaching and learning, thereby infringing on students’ right to education in a conducive environment.
Prof. Chuma-Udeh emphasized that the Soludo-led administration will not tolerate actions that undermine academic activities in any part of the state.
She reminded the parties that noise pollution is an offence under Nigerian law and attracts sanctions when established.
While calling on religious institutions to exercise restraint, the commissioner stressed the need for churches to confine noise generated from their activities within their premises, especially when located near schools.
She further observed that Promise International School existed in the area before the establishment of the church, and urged the church leadership to embrace peaceful coexistence, describing it as a core Christian value.
To ensure harmony, Prof. Chuma-Udeh directed that weekday church activities should commence from 4:00 p.m., after school hours.
She added that while churches may operate freely on Saturdays and Sundays, external examinations such as WAEC, NECO, and JAMB take precedence over all other activities, including religious programmes.
The commissioner warned that failure to comply with these directives would necessitate the involvement of the Anambra State Ministry of Environment, with all attendant consequences as provided by law.
She concluded by reiterating the Ministry of Education’s resolve to safeguard the academic interests of students and ensure a peaceful learning atmosphere in all schools across the state.
Obiageli is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
It is a welcome development