The pastor, Richard Nyadedzor was charged two counts of creating or carrying out noxious(noisy) activity near dwellings contrary to section 7 subsection (a, b) of ASHMA Abetment of noise) By-laws,2017 and non-compliance with EPA directive;contrary to section 35 subsection 1(c) of the Local Government Act 936 of 2016.
The accused person pleaded not guilty to all two charges therefore was granted bail in the sum of GHS10,000.00.
The presiding Judge, His Honour Mr Simon Nketiah Gaga adjourned the case to July 7,2024 while prosecution was ordered to file witness statement before the next adjourned date.
Henry Tenu, the prosecuting officer, told the court that the accused person being the pastor of House of Change Church at Lebanon Zone 4, Ashaiman within the Greater Accra Region was reported by some community members led by one Alhali Mohammed Salifu about nuisance within the area.
The prosecutor told the court that after several complaints about the church’s activities since January 2020 but the situation had remained.
He told the court that upon a visit by a team of Environmental Health Officers to the church, it was discovered that the church operates too close to surrounding houses.
Mr. Tenu told the court that despite the engagement with the pastor to explore ways to minimize the noise for the benefits of all have proof futile.
The pastor, Mr. Ten told the court does not reside in the vicinity so was difficult getting him.
He said checks from the physical planning department revealed that the said plot was meant for residential purpose and not otherwise.
The prosecution said the landlord had been engaged several times to discontinue the tenancy agreement with the pastor but failed to comply.
The accused pastor was served with a directive to relocate within 3 months but failed to comply.
As a result, he was served with a court summons to appear before this honourable court to be compelled to stop the operation of the church in the area.
By: Prosper Kwaku Selassy Agbitor
