The Federal Government has issued a fresh crackdown directive on unlicensed gas dealers following a fatal explosion in Ibadan, warning that all illegal operators must cease activities or face decisive enforcement actions.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, delivered the warning on Saturday in a statement responding to Friday night’s blast in the Biodun Alaadun area of Ona Ara Local Government Area, Oyo State. The incident, which occurred during the transfer of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from a tanker to a retail outlet, left three people dead and destroyed multiple properties.
Ekpo, expressing condolences to the families affected, described the tragedy as avoidable and blamed it on unlawful and unsafe practices within the gas distribution chain.
According to preliminary findings, the explosion happened while LPG was being discharged into an unapproved 2.5-metric-tonne skid located in a residential environment — a breach of basic safety requirements. The blast tore through surrounding homes, shops and a church, highlighting the risks posed by informal operators.
“This disaster should never have happened,” Ekpo said. “Gas remains a safe energy source when handled properly. However, negligence, the use of inferior equipment and the refusal of some operators to obtain mandatory regulatory approvals are the real causes of these recurring incidents.”
He confirmed that the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has launched a full-scale investigation to uncover the precise cause of the explosion. The minister also appealed to residents and witnesses to assist investigators to ensure a comprehensive outcome.
Ekpo stressed that the government will no longer condone the proliferation of illegal gas retail points and pledged strict enforcement to safeguard communities.
“The Federal Government will shut down hazardous facilities, prosecute violators and apply all necessary penalties to restore safety and public confidence in the gas industry,” he said. “Illegal operators are hereby directed to exit the sector immediately.”
The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting safe domestic gas usage while eliminating practices that endanger lives and property.
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