The Ogun State government has extended its ban on indiscriminate handling of gas to cover sales of all cooling system servicing, repairs and related gas activities (especially for air-conditioning and refrigerating units), across the state.
Recall that following recurring gas explosions in Ogun, the state government had recently banned the production, sales and usage of industrial and welding gas in the state until further notice.
The extension of the ban to cover cooling system servicing and related areas is to allow for proper investigation into recent gas explosions in the state arising from sources suspected to have engaged in the adulteration of these combustible products, which has led to the loss of lives.
In a statement signed by the special adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun, on environment, Ola Oresanya, technicians who specialise in the repairs and servicing of these cooling systems, and dealers on the affected gas types, are directed to adhere strictly to this ban in their own interest and that of the public.
“With the recent incidence of gas explosions in Ogun, the state government in its bid to ensure that no further lives are lost through similar circumstances, or any other avoidable circumstance whatsoever, is placing a ban on all cooling systems related gas sales, purchase and use, until further notice. Compliance is not optional,” Oresanya said.
He, therefore, called on all dealers, retailers and technicians in these combustible products to comply immediately with the ban as the state government will clamp down on any outlet or individual that flouts the order.
The special adviser, however, prayed for the repose of the souls of those recently lost their lives in the unfortunate incidents,” saying “these are trying times, you are in our prayers.”
Oresanya solicited the understanding of the general public on this new directive, adding that it was taken in the interest of all.
He assured that the task force set up responsively by the state governor is out to uncover all unethical practices associated with the entire supply chains of the various highly inflammable gas products, suspected to have been adulterated, as the task force had commenced the engagement of critical stakeholders in the energy sector.
