In the ever-changing landscape of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) consumption, a major debate is emerging on the need for proper regulation of outlets and distribution points in Akwa Ibom State. Hon. Precious Selong, representing Urue Offong Oruko State Constituency in the State House of Assembly, raised an important issue regarding the safety and regulation of such facilities.
The concerns expressed by Hon. Selong on the proliferation of cooking gas outlets and the unauthorized transfer of LPG into residential areas, lock-up shops and roadsides by suppliers are legitimate issues that require immediate attention. The importance of regulating the location of such outlets cannot be overemphasized as it ensures that operators adhere to necessary safety measures with respect to storage, discharge and distribution in approved areas.
Hon Selong’s intervention highlights the increased risk of gas explosions and fires due to non-compliance with safety and environmental guidelines, which have unfortunately led to loss of lives and property in the past. It is crucial to implement strict regulations to minimise these risks and ensure the safety of Akwa Ibom State residents.
The response of the House of Assembly, represented by the Speaker, former Udeme Otong, who led the House Committee on Petroleum to engage with the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and other relevant agencies, is a positive step towards stricter regulation and better monitoring of LPG vending facilities.
Furthermore, the proposed Value Added Tax (VAT) legislation tabled by Governor Umo Eno raises another critical issue for the state’s economy. The passage of this law could have a significant impact on the state’s revenue and fiscal policies.
In conclusion, it is imperative that the Akwa Ibom State authorities take firm steps to effectively regulate LPG outlets and enact appropriate fiscal laws. These actions are critical to ensuring the safety of citizens and ensuring sustainable economic growth in the region.