An NGO in Osun State calls for the immediate removal of a telecom mast near Good Tidings School, citing severe safety risks.
A non-governmental organisation known as One House Development Initiative has called for the immediate removal of a telecommunications mast erected near Good Tidings School.
The facility, located in the Egbedore Local Government Area of Osun State, poses potential safety risks to about 800 pupils and more than 90 staff members.
The NGO made these allegations in a report, according to information published by punchng, highlighting environmental regulation violations by the operators.
Environmental Regulations and Safety Risks
The organisation stated that the mast, reportedly installed by Pan African Towers, remained in place nine months after regulatory directives.
NESREA had previously directed the company to decommission the structure or meet stipulated environmental regulatory requirements.
An OHI investigation revealed that the site failed to comply with laws governing infrastructure near schools, residential buildings, and water sources.
Response From Regulatory Authorities
The school management formally notified the Local Inspector of Education in the area, who visited the site and observed the regulatory irregularities.
NESREA issued a letter dated January 28, 2026, stating that the company failed to present an Environmental Impact Assessment Certificate.
The agency directed the company to decommission the mast immediately or acquire adjoining land to satisfy the minimum 10-metre setback requirement.
Challenges With Setback Requirements
OHI argued that acquiring adjoining land was not a feasible alternative because of surrounding structures and geographic limitations.
School buildings and residential properties occupy neighboring plots to the east, west, and south, while a government road borders the north.
The organisation rejected any proposal to retain the mast, insisting that complete removal is the only acceptable solution to protect the community.
Official Guidelines and Lack of Response
The National Environmental Standards for Telecommunications and Broadcast Facilities Regulations outline strict rules for facility locations.
These rules require specific distances from perimeter fences, building walls, and water sources to protect public health and safety.
Efforts by journalists to obtain a response from Pan African Towers proved abortive, as calls and messages went unanswered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the NGO demanding the removal of the mast in Osun State?
The One House Development Initiative is demanding the removal of the mast near Good Tidings School because it violates environmental regulations and poses safety risks to about 800 pupils and 90 staff members.
Which company installed the disputed telecommunications mast?
The telecommunications mast was reportedly installed by Pan African Towers in the Egbedore Local Government Area of Osun State.
What did NESREA instruct Pan African Towers to do?
NESREA directed Pan African Towers to immediately decommission the mast or acquire adjoining land to meet the minimum 10-metre setback requirement within 14 days of receiving the letter.
What are the legal setback distances for telecom masts near schools?
Nigerian environmental regulations require a minimum setback of 10 metres between the base of a mast and the perimeter fence of schools, hospitals, or residential premises.
