The Abia State House of Assembly has initiated fresh legislative measures aimed at tackling rising community violence and curbing noise pollution across the state, as lawmakers deliberated on key motions during plenary on Tuesday.
Central to the session was a motion urging the Abia State Government to take over the Erei Palm Plantation Farm Settlement in Okon Aku, Ohafia, following recurring violent clashes in the area.
The motion, tagged H.A.M 20 and sponsored by Hon. Kalu Mba Nwoke member representing (Ohafia South State Constituency), seeks urgent government intervention to prevent further bloodshed and restore lasting peace to the troubled community.
The State Legislators were advised to study the proposal in detail ahead of its formal presentation on a later legislative date, underscoring the Assembly’s cautious approach to resolving the crisis.
In a different development, the House considered another motion, H.A.M 49, aimed at regulating the use of loud outdoor speakers in residential areas, sponsored by Hon. Ucheonye Stephen Akachukwu, member for (Aba Central State Constituency).
The motion sparked robust debate as members expressed concern over increasing noise pollution in urban and semi-urban communities.
The proposal, therefore, calls on the state government, through the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) and other relevant bodies, to enforce existing noise control regulations, including maintaining sound levels within 55 decibels between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
It also advocates a statewide public awareness campaign targeting residents, religious organisations and event centres on responsible sound usage, as well as the adoption of soundproofing measures.
Also, the motion recommends the designation of specific zones for open-air loudspeaker activities, in a bid to balance citizens’ rights to worship and assemble with the need for peace, quiet and a healthy environment.
Addressing the matter, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ihuoma Emeruwa, noted that enforcement of noise regulations falls under the purview of local government authorities.
He disclosed plans by the Assembly to engage Mayors across the 17 Local Government Areas to ensure strict compliance at the grassroots level.
Meanwhile, the House stepped down the second reading of H.A.B 29 the Abia State Poverty Alleviation Trust Fund Bill, 2025 also sponsored by Hon. Akachukwu.
The deferment, according to legislative sources, is to allow for further consultations and scrutiny before the bill progresses to the next stage.
