Reports

Wednesday, 6 April 2016

El-Rufai Directs Security Agents To Arrest Petrol Hawkers.





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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