In the wake of the recent gas explosion at Ita-Oshin in Abeokuta North Local Government area of Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun has issued an immediate evacuation order for the affected area to facilitate integrity tests.
Speaking on Sunday during an on-site inspection of the affected area, Governor Abiodun assured that those impacted by the gas explosion would receive compensation, and individuals in intensive care at the hospital would receive support from the state government.
Governor Abiodun highlighted concerns regarding the regulations and roadworthiness of transportation modes for gas products. He also raised questions about the safety protocols for heavy-duty trucks transporting Compressed Natural Gas across the country.
“As a responsible state government, our emergency management team have taken stock of all those businesses and residences that have been affected by this unfortunate incident.
“What has happened yesterday throws up a lot of questions, far-ranging questions. The issues around safety, issues around regulation, issues around road worthiness of the modes of transportation, and issues around the required regulatory oversight for the entire industry must be looked into.”
The governor further stated that the Abiodun-led administration intends to introduce legislation to enhance oversight within the industry. Additionally, he has instructed that trucks transporting petroleum products into the state must meet roadworthiness standards.
He disclosed that a meeting between the state government and the Petroleum Tanker Drivers Association is scheduled for today, Monday, April 29, 2024, in his office to address tanker safety concerns on the roads. Furthermore, he has tasked the Standard Organisation of Nigeria with ensuring that the trucks adhere to the required standards for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).