NMDPRA Seals 10 Illegal LPG Outlets In Akwa Ibom: Cracking Down On Unsafe Practices

NMDPRA Seals 10 Illegal LPG Outlets In Akwa Ibom: Cracking Down On Unsafe Practices

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has intensified its efforts to curb the rising number of illegal Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) outlets in Akwa Ibom State again. As part of its ongoing clampdown, the agency sealed 10 illegal gas outlets in Uyo for operating without proper licenses and posing serious safety risks to residents after the one of last year.

A Growing Concern Over Illegal LPG Outlets

The Akwa Ibom Coordinator for NMDPRA, Mr. Ikechukwu Eseka, expressed deep concern over the unchecked proliferation of unauthorized cooking gas outlets, especially in residential areas. These illegal operations not only flout safety regulations but also expose communities to the risk of explosions and fires.

 

Eseka revealed that the affected LPG retailers were found to be operating without the necessary licenses or registration with NMDPRA. Despite multiple engagements with union leaders to educate them on safety protocols, several operators continued to ignore the rules, prompting the agency to take decisive action.

 

Dangerous Practices Uncovered

During the surveillance operation, the NMDPRA discovered alarming safety violations at these outlets. One of the most dangerous practices noted was the use of high-pressure 50kg cylinders turned upside down to refill smaller cylinders. This illegal decanting method is not only unsafe but highly explosive, especially when conducted in densely populated residential areas.

 

Adding to the danger, some LPG outlets were operating under high-tension electric cables — a disaster waiting to happen. The presence of flammable gas so close to electrical currents dramatically increases the risk of accidental fires or explosions.

 

Why Illegal Outlets Persist

The rise of illegal LPG outlets is largely driven by the growing demand for cooking gas in Nigeria. As more households shift away from firewood and kerosene to LPG, some unscrupulous operators see an opportunity to cut corners and profit from this demand without adhering to safety protocols.

Another factor is poor regulatory enforcement in the past, which allowed some of these illegal plants to flourish. However, the NMDPRA is now stepping up its game with stricter enforcement and collaboration with security agencies to root out these dangerous operations.

 

NMDPRA’s Call to Action

In light of these findings, Eseka urged all illegal operators to immediately register with the NMDPRA at its Eket Field Office to ensure they meet the necessary safety standards. The agency is working closely with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Federal Fire Service to monitor and prevent further illegal activities.

 

Residents were also advised to stay vigilant and report any suspicious gas refilling activities in their neighborhoods. Early reporting could be the difference between preventing a catastrophe and witnessing another tragic explosion.

 

Prioritizing Public Safety

This latest clampdown highlights the NMDPRA’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and properties by ensuring that only properly licensed operators run LPG refilling outlets. The risks associated with unregulated gas plants in residential areas cannot be overstated, and addressing these safety lapses is crucial for the growth of Nigeria’s LPG market.

 

At LPG in Nigeria, we commend this action by the NMDPRA and emphasize the need for continuous public awareness on gas safety, proper infrastructure, and stricter enforcement to create a safer environment for everyone. Let’s work together to ensure that the journey toward cleaner energy in Nigeria is also a safe one.

 

Source: Leadership.ng

• Lpg
• nmdpra
• lpg in nigeria
• Nigeria