Living in close proximity to fuel facilities such as petrol stations is risky https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-it-safe-to-live-near-gas-station/. Filling stations are inherently hazardous environments as highly flammable, volatile substances such as gasoline, diesel, and other fuels are stored and dispensed at filling stations.

When situated near residential areas, these risks are exacerbated, posing threats of explosions, fires, and environmental contamination. The consequences can be catastrophic, endangering lives and property.

Our government is aware of the dangers associated with siting petrol stations near residential areas but overlook them, nonetheless. Some people say ‘oh the government can’t do much at this point’, but I disagree.

The problem is indeed multifaceted and tough to navigate as it is due to factors such as failures in urban planning, other entrenched socio-economic problems, but also (and I stand firmly by this), lax regulation.

Poor urban planning and zoning regulations created the haphazard, sloppy arrangement of placing filling stations near residential communities. As is the case in many developing countries, urban planning and land use management in Nigeria is very poor. Rapid, uncontrolled urbanization, informal settlements, and inadequate zoning regulations means that petrol stations have over time being located in unsuitable areas. This is the argument of most proponents of the idea that this problem is not government’s fault. I consider the argument valid, even reasonable, but I still believe we should hold the government accountable.

I would not opine today on the socio-eoconomic factors that contributed to or continue to drive this problem. Nowadays, -and I am being honest here-, I do not have the mental strength to discuss these deep-seated, heart-rending socio-economic issues. I have grown weary of talking about them. I’d ask that you pardon me but be reminded that these issues are there and they are real and actual human beings are suffering.

So let us jump to the cracks in regulation and the subject matter this time.

Owners of filling stations may prioritize convenience and profit over safety, opting to establish stations in densely populated areas. That tendency is however not peculiar to Nigeria. In most cases and jurisdictions, if individuals and corporations can get away with wrongdoing, they will act lawlessly. Weak enforcement of safety standards and regulations by relevant authorities allows filling stations to operate near homes with minimal oversight and zero repercussions. Political corruption also contributes significantly to the problem. It is well known that political heavyweights routinely circumvent regulations and endanger public safety in Nigeria.

So I made my point. This problem is largely due to government negligence and ineptide.

Communities living in the vicinity of filling stations are vulnerable to risks. In the event of accidents, they are disproportionately affected, with loss of lives, injuries, displacement, and property damage being common outcomes. Fuel stations emit pollutants that can have detrimental effects on human health and ecosystems, potentially leading to health issues such as respiratory problems, skin irritations, and so on.

Relevant actors should not continue to ignore these risks. Regulatory authorities in Nigeria should implement and enforce strict guidelines on the siting of petrol stations. Wherever possible, filling stations can be relocated to designated industrial zones away from residential areas to mitigate risks and safeguard public safety. Moving forward though, minimum distance requirements between fuel facilities and residential areas should be established and enforced.

It is also good to work to quantify current threats to the quality of life for residents. Associated risks go beyond fire outbreaks and should be quantitatively explored. Communities should be empowered with knowledge about the risks associated with living near filling stations, and it is therefore important to foster advocacy for safer urban environments. In general, urban planning efforts should prioritize safety and environmental protection.

Two of my regular editors sent me feedback along the lines of: your heart does not seem to be in this at all. They are right. I wrote this because I consider it relevant, but the entire time could not stop asking myself how ridiculous this behavior is. Who sites petrol stations in some of the positions they are in currently? And in cities that are governed by human beings that at least have a head? It would seem they have a brain-. I think so, but they do not act it. These thoughts distracted me throughout.

Since I think everything I outlined in this article is painfully obvious, the short version of this article follows in the subsequent sentence. What is this gamble with lives and livelihoods? why is it so hard for us to prioritize safety, enact strong regulations, and implement sustainable solutions? https://daraalegbeleye.com/breakdown-of-law-and-order-is-a-threat-to-human-life-in-nigeria/

E maa fi ile epo si arin agbo ile! Iyen obvious now! Ah!

Odabo!