Adedapo Adesanya
By Adedapo Adesanya
- Warns unlicensed dealers of illegal operations
- Promises to carry out further investigation
The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), after a preliminary investigation, has revealed the cause of the Kaduna gas explosion, saying the unfortunate incident was as a result of illegal decanting (transfer) of Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) into another cylinder by operators of the facility.
This disclosure was made by Mr Paul Osu, Head, Public Affairs, DPR in a statement issued on Sunday in Lagos, adding that the agency commiserated with the families affected by the unfortunate incident.
He further said that the gas explosion was reported to have occurred at an unlicensed LPG retail shop in Kaduna, Kaduna State, resulting in fatalities.
“In line with our regulatory oversight on the oil and gas industry, the agency immediately mobilized our staff to the scene to investigate the cause of the explosion.
“We wish to inform the public that we are carrying out further investigations on the incident, and we will update as soon as we conclude,” he said.
Mr Osu said that the agency will continue to monitor and sensitise members of the public on the safe handling of petroleum products to prevent future occurrence of incidences like that which occurred in Kaduna state.
‘’We appeal to members of the public to continue to assist in reporting the activities of illegal operators to the nearest DPR office’’.
A gas explosion on Saturday, January 4 killed five persons, including a professor, and destroyed valuable properties while four other persons sustained injuries.
The DPR has threatened to sanction all unlicensed LPG retail outlets and operators with stiff penalties and also called on gas plant operators and retailers to obtain the required license, that would ensure safe handling of gas.
“Gas retailers who do not have category D license for retailing LPG are desperate for money, because LPG is new source of money and the public now know better, that using gas for cooking is faster and cleaner; but the public need to be aware that it has to be handled with caution.
“Investors should invest in gas business but they should follow the rules and regulations and do it in line with best practices,” the agency said.
