AN ASSESSMENT ON THE IMPACT OF IMPROPER SITING OF PETROL FILLING STATION ON HUMAN HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT. A CASE STUDY OF OFFA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA KWARA STATE

This study assessed the impact of improper siting of petrol filling stations on human health and the environment in Offa Local Government Area, Kwara State. The general objective was to evaluate the level of public awareness, health and environmental risks, and institutional factors associated with the poor siting of petrol stations, with a view to offering policy recommendations. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted, using a sample size of 100 respondents selected through simple random sampling across various communities. Data were collected via structured questionnaires consisting of demographic information and targeted research questions. Out of 100 distributed questionnaires, 91 were valid and analyzed. Findings revealed that 71% of respondents had petrol stations sited near their homes, often violating regulatory distance standards. Health complaints such as headaches (33%), coughing (22%), and breathing difficulties (16%) were commonly reported. Environmental issues such as fuel odors (38%), water contamination (28%), and air quality deterioration (70%) were noted. Institutional lapses including corruption (31%), poor urban planning (21%), and weak regulatory enforcement (53%) were identified as key contributors to improper siting. Furthermore, 83% of respondents reported regular or occasional exposure to chemical fumes, and 59% believed some stations were improperly located. The study concludes that the siting of petrol filling stations in Offa poses significant risks to public health and the environment. It recommends stronger policy enforcement, routine environmental audits, and increased public awareness to mitigate adverse impacts.