The Rivers State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Rt. Hon. Evans Bipi, has strongly condemned the actions of certain gas refilling and petrol station owners who bypass the necessary regulatory approvals from the Ministry. These operators, according to Bipi, rely solely on permits from the oil and gas industry without obtaining the essential clearances from the state Ministry.
During a courtesy visit by the Rivers State chapter of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), Bipi underscored that securing approvals from the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development should be the first step before any other permits are sought for downstream sector investments. He emphasized the importance of this process in ensuring that stations comply with established safety standards and urban development guidelines.
Bipi raised serious concerns over the dangers posed by non-compliance with these regulations, particularly the risks to public safety and the environment. He warned that failure to adhere to the required approvals could result in severe consequences, including environmental damage, potential loss of lives, and legal ramifications for operators.
In a further critique, the Commissioner accused some filling station operators of altering their approved building plans without the proper authorization, a practice that could compromise safety and lead to violations of urban planning laws.
Urging for strict adherence to regulatory standards, Bipi called on operators to obtain all required permits and work closely with the Ministry to ensure public safety. He particularly emphasized the importance of regulating gas refilling businesses, especially those located in residential areas, to prevent explosions and other life-threatening incidents.
Responding to the Commissioner’s concerns, the Chairman of PETROAN Rivers State, Francis Dimkpa, expressed the association’s deep concern over the recent Oroazi incident, where an explosion caused significant damage. He clarified that none of their members engage in gas refilling operations within residential areas, acknowledging the grave risks associated with such practices. Dimkpa assured the Commissioner and the public that the association is committed to maintaining safety standards and working collaboratively to prevent such incidents in the future.
The exchange highlighted the growing need for a unified effort between government agencies and industry stakeholders to strengthen regulatory compliance, enhance safety protocols, and protect both lives and the environment in Rivers State’s downstream sector.
