Multiple gas explosion: Ogun bans further sales of industrial gas

...seals two gas plants

Ogun State government on Friday banned further sales of industrial gas across the state as part of measures to halt incessant gas explosion at the state capital, Abeokuta that has killed no fewer than ten people in less than two weeks

The Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Barr. Femi Ogunbanwo gave this marching order during stakeholders meeting in Abeokuta.

Barr Ogunbanwo noted that all major stakeholders in the gas sector were expected to abide by the directives, saying, "anyone found guilty of selling adulterated gas products or violating safety protocols would have full weight of the law to contend with".

He reiterated that Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun had been in consultations with the federal authorities, charging relevant agencies of government and the Nigerian Police to move round the nooks and crannies of the State, investigate and bring to book whoever found culpable of any sharp practices or negligence that could cause further harm to the people.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, Dr. Ola Oresanya described the incidence as an ugly development, which must be nipped in the bud.

Meanwhile, two persons were again reportedly injured in another gas explosion which occurred at Onikoko area of Abeokuta on Friday morning

Our correspondent who visited the scene of this fourth gas explosion in Abeokuta gathered that an industrial gas belonging to a construction company kept in its garage exploded throwing expletives which injured the victims.

An iron splinter from the exploded gas cylinder flew to about 200 metres inside St. Leo’s College, Onikoko, and hit one of the victims who’s a woman on her chest, injuring one of her breasts.

The effect of the explosion was seen on nearby buildings, shattering wall and glasses.

Meanwhile, the state government has sealed off an industrial gas retailing depot at Omida.

Earlier, a team consisting Barr. Femi Ogunbanwo, the Commissioner for Special Duties, Mr. Ola Oresanya, Special Adviser to Gov Abiodun on Environment and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Engr. Rasaki Ojetola and other government officials had visited different sites of the explosion and some gas plant outlets, which necessitated the seal of two of the plants in Omida and Idi-Ori in Abeokuta metropolis.