The Mayor of Port Harcourt, Hon. Ezebunwo Ichemati, says retailing of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) within residential buildings in the Port Harcourt City local government area is now prohibited.
Ichemati, who spoke following the recent gas explosion at Oroazi community in Obio Akpor local government on Saturday, which has recorded 2 deaths and over 10 still hospitalized, said those conducting such businesses within a residential area should immediately relocate.
The mayor also condoled with victims families, the Oroazi community, and the Obio Akpor local government and noted that his administration will set up a committee to monitor compliance with the new directive.
He said, “We sympathize with the victims of the explosion, and it is unfortunate that lives have been lost to such an act.
“In Port Harcourt City Local Government, we are taking steps to ensure that gas retail shops located near residential areas are closed down.”
“A committee will be established to inspect sites where these shops are operating in unsuitable locations, and we will shut them down.”
Speaking further, Hon. Ichemati added that “We will organize a town hall meeting soon to discuss this issue with the business owners and explain why operating such businesses in residential areas is not advisable.”