Lagos residents want tougher noise control measures

Some shop owners and residents in Lagos are asking for stricter enforcement of noise rules due to ongoing disturbances.

They shared their concerns in interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria about noise pollution in Amukoko, Ajeromi-Ifelodun, and around Pen Cinema in Agege.

On Sunday, NAN reported that its correspondent heard generator noise, car horns, and mosque announcements at Ajose Street Roundabout in Amukoko.

Mr Olumide Adebayo, a shop owner in Amukoko, said the loud noise had become a common issue, making it hard for him to rest well.

He mentioned that poor electricity supply had forced many businesses to use generators, which added to the noise problem for residents.

Adebayo noted that people had little choice but to put up with the noise since they live and work in the same area.

He urged for better electricity supply to cut down on the reliance on generators and the resulting noise.

Miss Bola Daniel, another shop owner, pointed out that touts were significant sources of noise in the area.

She explained that their shouting, fighting, and quarrelling often disturbed everyone and made the environment uneasy for residents and businesses.

Mrs Saidat Adegoke, a local resident, said loud noise, especially from places of worship, was a common issue in the neighbourhood.

She stated that this noise made it hard for her to rest and suggested that some businesses and places of worship should be located farther away from homes.

Another shop owner, Mr Mustapha Ahmed, mentioned that loud music and shouting were major noise sources in the community.

He said the noise made it difficult for him to focus at work and slowed him down in finishing his tasks.

Ahmed added that residents had tried to talk to those making the noise, but things had not improved.

He called on community leaders to set clear rules and educate residents on cutting down excessive noise.

Adebola Ajayi, a resident near Pen Cinema Market in Agege, said she faced loud noise from vehicles, touts, loudspeakers, and music, especially at night.

She noted that the noise distracted her from studying and affected her sleep.

"The government needs to enforce the noise regulation around here. A market should not be this loud if it is located close to where people live," she said.

The General Manager of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr Babatunde Ajayi, said at the 11th Noiseless Lagos Summit in May that noise pollution made up about 65 percent of complaints received by the agency.

LASEPA's website states that noise above 55 decibels during the day and 45 decibels at night in residential areas is considered excessive.

The Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017, Part VI, Section 177, also bans excessive noise in both private and public spaces.

The residents and shop owners called for better electricity supply, tougher enforcement of existing rules, and more community awareness to help reduce noise pollution.

They believe that stronger actions would help create a quieter environment where people can rest, study, and work without constant disturbances.