Precious Selong, the member representing Urue Offong Oruko State constituency in the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly, has advocated for legislation to regulate the location of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) sales and vending outlets in the state.
During a plenary session on Thursday, Selong raised concerns about the rapid proliferation of cooking gas sales outlets and the unauthorized transfer of LPG in residential areas, lock-up shops, and roadsides. She emphasized the need for stringent regulations to ensure safety measures are adhered to in the storage, discharge, and vending processes at approved locations.
Selong warned of the risks associated with non-compliance, including potential gas explosions and fire outbreaks, which have previously resulted in loss of lives and property.
In response, Speaker Elder Udeme Otong has instructed the House Committee on Petroleum to collaborate with the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and other relevant agencies. The committee is tasked with reviewing the operations of LPG sales outlets and facilities, with a report expected within one month.
Additionally, the House received a communication from Governor Umo Eno regarding the Value Added Tax (VAT) Bill. The Clerk of the House, Mrs. NsikakAbasi Orok, read the Governor’s message, and the House has scheduled the Bill for reading on Tuesday, September 17, during the next plenary session.