From John Dike, Osogbo

A Federal High Court in Osogbo has ruled in favour of residents of Fiwasaye Community in the town, restraining GSM service providers from erecting a mast near residential buildings.

The court declared the approval granted by the National Environmental Standard Regulation Agency (NESREA) and the community leader, the Baale of Fiwasaye, as illegal and null.

The residents, represented by Counsel Yemi Abiona, had sought legal action against the erection of the mast without consultation or consideration for the health and well-being of the community.

The court granted five reliefs sought by the residents, including a declaration that erecting the mast in a built-up area constitutes a serious danger and health hazard.

Justice Nathaniel Ayo-Emmanuel, in his judgment, set aside the permission granted by NESREA and declared that the defendants failed to provide credible evidence of compliance with relevant legislations.

By this judgment, the continued erection of the mast at Fiwasaye Community Zone D2, Osogbo, is now considered illegal.

This ruling is a significant victory for the residents, who had expressed concerns about the potential health and environmental impacts of the mast.