ASSESSMENT OF SOUND LEVELS IN SOME MARKETS AND WORSHIP CENTRES IN OYO AND OGUN STATES OF NIGERIA
Environmental noise pollution has become a major public health concern in rapidly urbanising cities of developing countries. This study assessed sound pressure levels in selected markets and worship centres in Oyo and Ogun States, Nigeria, and evaluated variations in noise levels using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Noise measurements were conducted in five major markets (Bodija, Ogunpa, Sango, Dugbe, and Sabo Markets) and three churches (Churches A, B, and C) using a calibrated sound level meter. Maximum and minimum sound levels were recorded at designated locations together with ambient temperature. The results showed that the mean of the maximum sound levels in the markets ranged from 93.54 ̶ 110.34 dBA, while the mean values for the churches ranged from 87.80 ̶ 107.68 dBA. The highest market noise level was observed at Dugbe Market (121.20 dBA), whereas the highest church noise level was recorded at Church C (115.30 dBA). One-way ANOVA revealed no statistically significant difference among the market noise levels (F = 0.902, p = 0.482) and among the church noise levels (F = 2.784, p = 0.102). The t-test shows that there is no significant difference between the sound levels in the church and the noise levels in the markets. Most measured values exceeded the, World Health Organization (WHO) recommended environmental noise limit of 53 dBA, indicating potential adverse health effects on traders, worshippers, and nearby residents. The study recommends stricter enforcement of environmental noise regulations and regular monitoring of community noise exposure.
Keywords: Analysis of variance (ANOVA), Churches, Markets, Noise pollution, Sound level
*Correspondence: abayomi.ajetunmobi@oouagoiwoye.edu.ng, 08158593532
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