The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, NMDPRA, has sealed two filling stations and a gas station in Sagamu Local Government Area of Ogun State.
They were sealed on Wednesday during a monitoring and surveillance exercise.
Media Talk Africa reports that the fuel stations were sealed for under-dispensing and shortchanging members of the public, while the gas plant was located in a densely populated residential area, thereby contravening safety regulations.
The Ogun State Coordinator of NMDPRA, Akinyemi Atilola, stated that the sealing followed a petition by members of the Awosanya community.
He said: “We are out to ensure that people get value for their money because you can’t be buying fuel at N959, N980 and still be experiencing shortages. That will not be good for our economy.
“Any filling station found culpable will be sealed off and fined in accordance with the rules and regulations. The ultimate aim is to ensure compliance. We hereby urge filling station owners to operate in line with laid-down rules.
“And we are here again today to sound a note of warning that NMDPRA will not fold its arms while some people think they can engage in gas plant construction without recourse to or respect for the safety of those around them.
“Yes, it is true that the present administration is encouraging optimum gas utilisation, but the safety of the people is of utmost importance. Business owners must prioritise safety and conduct their operations with a strong sense of duty to ensure the well-being of all.”
He urged members of the public to always report erring filling stations, saying, “we will swing into action.”
