NMDPRA Seals 10 Illegal LPG Decanting Outlets in Akwa Ibom

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Eket Field Office, has sealed 10 Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) decanting outlets in Akwa Ibom State for various infractions.

The State Coordinator of NMDPRA, Mr. Ikechukwu Eseka, disclosed this on Wednesday after a surveillance operation in Uyo.

According to Eseka, the affected LPG decanters were operating illegally without licenses, engaging in unsafe practices, and were not registered with the Authority as required by law. The enforcement exercise primarily targeted unapproved retail decanting facilities within the Uyo metropolis.

He further revealed that despite multiple engagements with union leaders, some operators had refused to comply with regulatory directives.

“Some of these LPG decanting outlets convert high-pressure 50kg cylinders, turn them upside down, and use them to refill smaller cylinders within residential buildings, which is extremely hazardous,” Eseka stated.

He also condemned the practice of siting LPG operations under high-tension power lines, emphasizing that the authority remains committed to safeguarding lives and property.

Eseka urged LPG operators to visit the NMDPRA Eket Field Office for proper registration and compliance with regulatory requirements. He clarified that the Authority offers three licensing categories for LPG retail: LPG Plant License, LPG Add-on in Retail Outlets, and Category D Retailers, which are strictly for cylinder exchange and not decanting.

He noted that the Authority is working in collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Federal Fire Service to enforce compliance and enhance safety in the state.

Eseka called on residents to report any illegal LPG activities to the NMDPRA for immediate action, providing a dedicated contact number: 08023183008.

SOIRCE: DAILY INDEPENDENT