Residents of Praise Hill Estate in Arepo, a rapidly expanding community in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State, are protesting the secret construction of what they believe to be a petrol station within their residential neighbourhood.
Initially introduced as a shopping mall project, the ongoing development has sparked outrage and deep concern among residents after evidence surfaced of underground fuel tanks being installed at the site.
The construction, situated between Praise Hill Estate and a branch of the Foursquare Gospel Church, lies in close proximity to schools, homes, and places of worship, raising serious safety and environmental fears.
Suspected Misrepresentation: From Mall to Fuel Station
In a formal letter dated April 9, 2025, addressed to the Ogun State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, the residents detailed suspicious activities at the construction site, including the covert installation of large underground tanks during nighttime hours. These tanks are believed to be fuel storage containers, contradicting the project’s original description as a multipurpose commercial mall.
According to residents and findings by the Punch, the development has deviated significantly from its proposed use.
Community members reported that legal representatives of the property owner, including one Yewande Aluko, requested that the estate’s entrance gate be relocated to enable truck access, further indicating the site’s fuel-related purpose.
Reverend Kola Owolabi, senior pastor of the neighbouring Foursquare Gospel Church, voiced the community’s concerns:
“There are already several filling stations between Wawa and Ibafo. The road here is narrow, and it’s dangerous to site a petrol station this close to residential buildings, schools, and churches.”
Ongoing Silence, Rising Concern
Despite submitting a formal complaint to the Ogun State government, the community has yet to receive a response from Commissioner Tunji Odunlami.
Urban planning experts warn that the suspected fuel station could breach Ogun State’s planning regulations, especially if construction permits were obtained under false pretences or required approvals were skipped entirely.
The absence of a project signboard at the site—a statutory requirement—has only added to the suspicion.
Residents Demand Government Action
In their petition, signed by Praise Hill Estate chairman Timi Oyelowo and secretary Oluwabunmi Oluwatosin, the residents urged the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development to immediately halt construction and launch a full investigation.
“We are calling on the state government to uphold safety and environmental standards and protect the rights of residents against unlawful and dangerous developments,” the letter read.
Legal analysts say the developers could face permit revocation and legal consequences if the allegations are confirmed.
As Ogun State continues to experience fast-paced urbanisation, residents and experts alike warn that unchecked commercial expansion, especially involving potentially hazardous infrastructure like fuel stations, must be properly regulated to protect communities.
