Anambra State Governor Soludo Reportedly Bans Pastors from Preaching in Public Places

• He emphasized the importance of limiting religious activities to designated places of worship to maintain public order.

• Soludo also banned the activities of native doctors and spiritualists, accusing them of exploiting and deceiving the public.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has prohibited pastors from conducting sermons on public roads and in marketplaces, citing issues related to noise pollution and disturbances to the public.

He underscored that, although the right to worship is upheld, religious practices should be restricted to designated places of worship to ensure public order is maintained.

Furthermore, Soludo has banned the activities of traditional healers and spiritual practitioners, alleging that they exploit and mislead the public. This initiative is part of a larger strategy to eradicate fraudulent activities within the state.

These decisions have elicited varied responses. While some community members endorse the government’s efforts to regulate public conduct, others, especially those from traditional backgrounds, have condemned the actions, claiming that the governor exhibits religious bias and encroaches upon cultural traditions.

The discussion persists as Anambra seeks to find a balance between religious liberties and the maintenance of public order.

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In other news, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has been recognized for his exceptional leadership and commitment to promoting gender-friendly policies, inclusivity, and fairness in the Nigerian Senate.

The award, presented by Female Legislative Aides of the 10th National Assembly, commended Akpabio’s efforts in creating a more inclusive environment for women within the legislature. However, the recognition has been met with controversy due to allegations of sexual harassment leveled against him.

The timing of the award has raised concerns, especially following the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who accused Akpabio of misconduct. While Akpabio has denied the allegations, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticized the suspension, calling it an attempt to silence the accusations and undermine the principle of fair hearing. The party has also questioned Akpabio’s credibility, emphasizing his refusal to step aside for an independent investigation.

The controversy has fueled debates about Akpabio’s leadership and his commitment to fairness and accountability. While he has pledged to continue supporting inclusivity and gender equality, the outcome of any investigation into these allegations will be critical in determining both his credibility and the integrity of the Nigerian Senate.