In a decisive move against environmental infractions, the Lagos State Government has sealed the Flame Gospel Ministry International (Centre of Grace) following persistent complaints from residents over excessive noise pollution.
The enforcement action was confirmed by the General Manager of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Tunde Ajayi, who reacted to a complaint on social media with a terse but firm response: “Sealed!”
The shutdown followed mounting frustrations from residents, particularly Ms. Sururoh, who had repeatedly petitioned the state government over the church’s relentless noise. Venting on social media, she lamented:
“Dear Lagos State Government, this is long overdue! We’ve been reporting this case for over a year now, yet nothing has been done. We confronted them about the noise, and instead of reducing it, they made it worse! Imagine coming home after a stressful day, only to be jolted awake past 10 PM by their loud services. I have to be up by 4 AM!”
Another resident, identified as @R_ael_R, echoed similar grievances:
“A similar situation is happening in my estate. One neighbour held a seven-day vigil and wrapped it up with a full church service that lasted from 10 AM to 6 PM on a Monday!”
The sealing of Flame Gospel Ministry International is part of a broader clampdown by the Sanwo-Olu administration on noise pollution across Lagos. Over the past year, LASEPA has shut down multiple churches, mosques, lounges, and nightclubs violating noise limits.
In January, the agency sealed numerous religious centres, bars, and event venues for disregarding environmental laws, emphasizing that these actions were necessary to maintain public peace and a conducive living environment for all Lagosians.
Despite the latest enforcement, many residents insist that fines and temporary closures are not enough. Some have urged the government to impose heftier penalties, permanent shutdowns for repeat offenders, and stricter monitoring to curb the growing menace.
As Lagos continues its battle against unregulated noise pollution, the question remains: Will these measures be enough to restore sanity to affected communities, or will defiant establishments continue to push the limits?
PIONEER NEWS 