Commissioner Slams Gas and Petrol Stations for Ignoring Rivers Ministry Approval
Barikui Felix, Port Harcourt
The Rivers State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Evans Bipi, has expressed displeasure with owners of gas refilling and petrol stations who neglect the ministry’s approvals but rely solely on that from the oil and gas industry regulators while sitting their stations.
Bipi, who spoke when the Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria, PETROAN, Rivers State chapter paid him a courtesy visit, said the Ministry’s approvals are fundamental and a crucial precursor to obtaining other necessary permits for investments in the downstream retail chain.
He emphasised the need for investors in the sector to prioritise comprehensive compliance with regulations and guidelines by obtaining all necessary approvals from the relevant authorities.
Bipi said such oversight can lead to severe consequences, including loss of life, environmental hazards, and legal repercussions.
The Commissioner further accused some petrol station owners of deviating from the original approved building plan issued to them by the ministry, stressing that it is unacceptable for a petrol station investor to obtain approval for a 4-pump petrol station only to construct a 6- or 8-pump petrol station and even add a gas refilling section to it without prior government approval.
While advising them to desist from unauthorised practices and genuinely seek comprehensive approvals from the ministry, Bipi said such practices have severe and far-reaching consequences, including safety risks, environmental hazards, regulatory penalties, legal liabilities and economic losses.
Commenting on the Oroazi gas explosion in Port-Harcourt early this year, Bipi said his ministry is open to partnering with relevant stakeholders to properly regulate gas refilling or trans-filling businesses in the state, particularly in residential areas to prevent gas explosions and safeguard lives and property in the state.
On his part, the Rivers State Chairman of PETROAN, Francis Dimkpa, said the association is pained by the Oroazi gas explosion.
Dimkpa exonerated association members from refilling gas in residential areas but emphasised the enormous risks associated with such practices.
He noted that although the law does not prohibit the sale of gas cylinders and their accessories in residential areas, it does prohibit the refilling or trans-filling of gas in such locations, stressing that engaging in gas refilling in residential areas poses substantial dangers to individuals, businesses and communities.
The PETROAN Chairman further sought the ministry’s support and partnership to launch a comprehensive crackdown on gas refilling stores and shops in residential areas, adding that the collaborative effort aims to prevent potential disasters and ensure public safety.
Dimkpa promised to ensure that its members comply with the Ministry’s regulations and guidelines, including obtaining its necessary approvals.
