The executive governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir
El-Rufai has ordered security agents to arrest anyone caught dispensing or
hawking petrol in the state.
The governor made the disclosure on Tuesday and he said the
measure was necessary to end the lingering fuel scarcity.
The Special Assistant to the Governor on Media and
Publicity, Mr. Samuel Aruwan stated that it is now a punishable offence to
dispense petrol in jerry cans and other containers.
This decision he said was taken at the state Security
Council meeting. He said
security agencies have been placed on high alert in
accordance with the Kaduna State Petroleum Products (Anti-Hoarding and
Adulteration) Law of 1992.
The statement said that the ban prohibited sales of
petroleum products in Jerry cans throughout the 23 local government areas of
the state by hawkers.
“This law empowers the task force to ensure those petroleum
products were sold in a safe manner, with stiff penalty on violators.
“Council based its decision on legal and security
considerations, compounded by the environmental hazard petroleum products in
Jerry cans can cause,” it stated.
Speaking further, he enjoined the public to cooperate with
the new directive:
“The Security Council unanimously agreed to ban the sale and
urged motorists to remain calm as government was taking measures to address the
current scarcity.
“The state government is working with the NNPC and other
agencies to reduce the hardship associated with the shortages of petroleum
products.
“Council also observed that the unsafe handling of petroleum
products during periods like this has been associated with fires, destruction
and fatal consequences for innocent victims.
“Council further warned those engaged in sabotage and
illegal sale of petroleum products in the state to desist with immediate
effect.
“The Security Council also directed the arrest and
prosecution of those found violating the ban, and the outright confiscation of
any petroleum product found in their possession, “the statement said.
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