Rivers State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Rt. Hon. Evans Bipi, has voiced concern over gas refilling and petrol station owners who bypass necessary ministry approvals, relying solely on endorsements from the oil and gas industry.
During a courtesy visit by the Rivers State chapter of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), Commissioner Bipi emphasized that obtaining the Ministry’s approval is essential before securing additional permits for downstream sector investments. He urged investors to adhere strictly to regulatory guidelines, warning that neglecting these protocols could lead to severe consequences, including loss of life, environmental damage, and legal penalties.
The Commissioner criticized some station owners for altering approved building plans, citing cases where investors received approval for a 4-pump station but expanded to 6 or 8 pumps and added gas refilling sections without authorization. Bipi condemned such practices, stressing that unauthorized expansions compromise safety, violate regulations, and pose significant risks to public welfare.
Reflecting on the Oroazi gas explosion earlier this year in Port Harcourt, Bipi underscored the importance of adhering to safety standards, attributing the incident to widespread regulatory breaches within the industry. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to regulate gas refilling operations, particularly in residential areas, to prevent future disasters and protect lives and property.
In response, PETROAN Chairman, Francis Dimkpa, expressed deep sorrow over the Oroazi explosion and distanced association members from illegal gas refilling activities in residential zones. He highlighted the severe risks associated with such practices, despite the law permitting the sale of gas cylinders and accessories in these areas. Dimkpa called for a joint initiative with the Ministry to crack down on unauthorized gas refilling outlets, emphasizing that ensuring public safety is a collective responsibility.
Dimkpa also assured Commissioner Bipi of PETROAN’s commitment to compliance with all regulatory standards, pledging to ensure that members secure the necessary approvals and adhere to established guidelines. He thanked Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for creating a conducive business environment that promotes investment and economic growth.
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This dialogue between the Rivers State Government and PETROAN highlights the critical need for strict adherence to safety regulations and collaborative efforts to safeguard communities from the dangers posed by unauthorized gas and petrol stations.
