IPOB Lawyer condemns Anambra Governor’s ban on public preaching

On March 10, 2025, IPOB’s counsel Ifeanyi Ejiofor slammed Anambra’s preaching ban, alleging constitutional rights violations.

He condemned the policy as oppressive, arguing it violates citizens’ fundamental rights. The controversial fine targets religious gatherings, intensifying tensions between authorities and faith groups.

Meanwhile, the ₦500,000 penalty triggered statewide debates on religious freedom, with critics condemning governance overreach and urging reversal.

Additionally, public protests erupted nationwide, amplifying calls to uphold constitutional rights and halt punitive enforcement measures against vulnerable communities.

Speaking to journalists in Owerri on Monday, Ejiofor expressed his strong opposition to the ban, labeling it a violation of Section 38(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended, 2023). The section guarantees the fundamental right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, including the right to propagate one’s faith publicly.

Ejiofor condemned Anambra’s public preaching ban and ₦500,000 fine as unconstitutional, warning it threatens religious freedom and governance norms.

He cited the 2022 Supreme Court ruling in Lagos State Govt v. Abdulkareem, which affirmed citizens’ rights to publicly practice faith.

“The court emphasized religious freedom includes public worship and teaching—protections the Anambra policy ignores,” he stressed, urging lawmakers to uphold constitutional safeguards.

Criticism of Justification for the Ban

The Anambra State Government, led by Governor Chukwuma Soludo, has justified the restriction on public preaching as a measure to address noise pollution. However, Ejiofor dismissed this rationale as insufficient and poorly thought out. He argued that rather than imposing an outright ban, the government should have explored regulatory measures to moderate noise levels without infringing on religious liberties.

“Noise pollution is a legitimate concern, but it does not warrant a blanket ban on public preaching,” Ejiofor said. “The governor could have implemented guidelines or designated specific areas for outdoor religious activities instead of criminalizing peaceful expressions of faith.”

Ejiofor questioned the governor’s priorities, suggesting that the administration’s focus on restricting gospel preachers is misplaced given the state’s pressing security challenges. “Governor Soludo seems to be at his wit’s end in addressing the serious issues facing our state. How does the prevailing insecurity relate to peaceful evangelists spreading the gospel?” he asked.

Implications for Religious Freedom

The IPOB lawyer expressed concern that many Anambra residents may not fully understand the far-reaching implications of the ban. According to him, the policy effectively criminalizes all forms of public preaching, including outdoor crusades and other religious gatherings that are central to many faith practices.

“This ban is not just about noise; it is about silencing voices and curtailing freedoms that are protected under our constitution,” Ejiofor emphasized. He warned that such measures could pave the way for further restrictions on fundamental rights if left unchallenged.

Call for Reconsideration

Ejiofor urged the Anambra State Government to revisit the policy and adopt a more balanced approach that respects constitutional rights while addressing legitimate concerns. He pointed to neighboring states like Abia and Enugu as examples of effective governance without infringing on religious liberties.

“Anambra should take a cue from states that prioritize security and development without suppressing fundamental freedoms,” Ejiofor advised. “True leadership is about building, not suppressing; about securing, not silencing.”

He called on Governor Soludo to engage with stakeholders, including religious leaders and civil society groups, to find a solution that upholds both public order and individual rights. “The ban on public preaching is a dangerous precedent that must be revisited. The government should focus on fostering harmony and addressing core issues affecting the state.”

As debates over the controversial policy continue, Barrister Ejiofor’s remarks underscore the tension between governance and constitutional freedoms in Nigeria. The Anambra State Government faces mounting pressure to reconsider its stance and find a more inclusive path forward that respects both religious expression and public welfare.

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