Rivers State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Evans Bipi, has expressed his disappointment with owners of gas refilling and petrol stations who ignore the Ministry’s necessary approvals, relying solely on the approvals of the oil and gas industry.
The oversight can lead to severe consequences, including loss of life, environmental hazards, and legal repercussions.
Speaking during a courtesy visit from the Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), Rivers State chapter, Bipi emphasized the need for comprehensive compliance with regulations and guidelines.
He stated that the Ministry’s approvals are fundamental and a crucial precursor to obtaining other necessary permits for investments in the retail chain of the downstream sector.
The Commissioner also accused some filling station owners of deviating from the original approved building plan issued by the Ministry.
He cited examples of investors constructing more pumps than approved or adding gas refilling sections without prior government approval.
Bipi advised investors to desist from unauthorized practices and instead seek comprehensive approvals from the Ministry.
He warned that such practices have severe consequences, including safety risks, environmental hazards, regulatory penalties, legal liabilities, and economic losses.
The Commissioner’s comments come after the Oroazi gas explosion in Port Harcourt earlier this year.
Bipi attributed the cause to the culture of blatant violations of safety and regulatory standards by those involved in such businesses.
In response, the Rivers State Chairman of PETROAN, Francis Dimkpa, expressed the Association’s grief and pain over the Oroazi gas explosion.
Dimkpa emphasized the enormous risks associated with gas refilling in residential areas and sought the Commissioner’s support in launching a comprehensive crackdown on gas refilling stores and shops in residential areas.
Dimkpa also promised to ensure that PETROAN members comply with the Ministry’s regulations and guidelines, including obtaining necessary approvals.
He thanked Governor Siminalayi Fubara for fostering a business-friendly environment in Rivers State.
