A growing dispute over noise pollution in Weija has intensified, with residents accusing a local church of repeatedly breaching agreed restrictions and municipal directives, raising questions about enforcement of environmental regulations.
The controversy involves City of Christ Church, pastored by Ignatius Cobbina with Ken Arthur as its Resident Pastor, located within a residential area.
The church is reported to hold frequent services, including late evening sessions on weekdays and Sundays.
The issue dates back to last year, when a complaint was filed with the local assembly’s Environmental Protection Agency over the church’s use of high-volume loudspeakers and microphones.
Residents say the noise has become a persistent disturbance, often exceeding acceptable limits and affecting the wider neighbourhood.
Some community members claim the prolonged exposure has disrupted daily life and contributed to health concerns, including ear-related complications.
Efforts to resolve the matter amicably appear to have failed.
Residents say proposals, including reducing volume levels, soundproofing the premises, and ending evening services by 8:00 p.m., were either dismissed or not fully implemented.
Investigations indicate that the Weija Municipal Assembly previously intervened, dispatching officers to assess the situation.
While recommendations were reportedly made to address the noise, residents insist the church has not complied.
Conflicting accounts over compliance
Environmental Health Officer Mariama Braimah, who has been handling the case, maintains that the issue was initially resolved following a meeting between some complainants and the church.
She said the church agreed to reduce noise levels and end services by 8:30 p.m., adding that her office had not received further complaints suggesting a breach.
However, a resident who spoke to us disputes the claim, insisting the Assembly has been formally notified of continued violations.
Braimah has indicated that further engagement will be pursued and warned that legal action may be taken if the matter remains unresolved.
Church leadership, including Pastor Cobbina and Resident Pastor Ken Arthur, acknowledge the concerns but insist they have complied with all agreed measures.
Fresh directive issued
Sources at the Environmental Health Office confirm that a second meeting has since been held following the renewed complaints.
At that meeting, the Assembly reportedly directed the church to suspend all evening services until further notice.
It remains unclear whether the directive will be adhered to or whether the Assembly will be compelled to escalate enforcement through legal channels.
The dispute underscores broader concerns about noise pollution in residential communities and potential gaps in regulatory enforcement.
At its core are issues of compliance, accountability, and the responsibility of authorities to protect residents from sustained public nuisance.
For now, residents say they are hoping for a resolution that restores calm and balance to the neighbourhood.
Editor’s note: This story is a developing story hence readers should watch this space for further developments.
