The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Resources Authority (NMDPRA) has launched a crackdown on illegal Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) retail outlets in Akwa Ibom State.
State Coordinator Ikechukwu Eseka made this known on Thursday during a courtesy visit by the state commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), Bakshar Hussaini.
Eseka stated that enforcement actions target LPG retailers involved in illegal decanting, unlicensed gas filling stations, and refilling plants. He highlighted the dangers posed by improper use of volatile gas, warning that illegal decanting of LPG is punishable by law.
“Gas plant owners have been instructed not to load gas for unlicensed operators,” he said, urging marketers to register and renew their licenses to continue operations.
The NMDPRA has also begun engaging individuals and organizations using storage tanks exceeding 500 liters to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
NSCDC Commandant Hussaini emphasized the importance of collaboration with NMDPRA to address indiscriminate LPG decanting, expressing concern over unsafe practices, such as selling cooking gas from residential houses, which pose environmental hazards.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring public safety and promoting lawful operations in the state’s LPG market.
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