NMDPRA Shuts Down Two Filling Stations and Gas Plant in Ogun Over Safety Violations

Image credit: Nairametrics

The Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has sealed two filling stations and a gas plant located in Sagamu, Ogun State, due to several safety and regulatory violations. This enforcement action took place on Wednesday, with Mr. Akinyemi Atilola, the NMDPRA Coordinator for Ogun State, leading the operation.

According to Atilola, the two filling stations were closed for under-dispensing fuel, meaning they were providing less fuel than customers were paying for. This is a serious issue, as it directly affects consumers who are not getting the value they paid for. In addition to this, the gas plant was sealed for operating without the necessary approvals from the relevant authorities. Atilola explained that the purpose of sealing these facilities was to protect the lives and property of local residents and to ensure that customers are not exploited by dishonest petroleum marketers.

The NMDPRA official further explained that this action was part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to monitor and regulate the activities of petroleum marketers and prevent the abuse of consumers. He also emphasized that safety regulations are a top priority, especially as the Nigerian government encourages the increased use of domestic gas for cooking and other purposes.

Atilola also noted that no responsible government agency would approve the construction of a gas plant in a densely populated residential area, which is where the illegal gas plant in Sagamu was located. The closure of the plant followed complaints from the local community who raised concerns about the plant’s operation in such a risky location.

The NMDPRA has made it clear that it will not tolerate the construction or operation of gas plants, filling stations, or other facilities that do not comply with safety rules. Atilola sent a strong warning to operators, saying that the agency will continue to monitor the situation closely and take necessary action against anyone found violating safety standards. He stressed that the agency is committed to ensuring that all stations and gas plants operate within the law and follow proper safety procedures.

In addition to the issue of safety, Atilola raised concerns about the price and quantity of fuel dispensed by filling stations. He pointed out that consumers should not have to pay high fuel prices—such as N959 or N980 per liter—and still receive less than the correct amount of fuel. The NMDPRA is actively monitoring stations to ensure that they are not shortchanging customers and that they are operating fairly.

The NMDPRA Coordinator also urged petroleum and gas marketers to conduct their businesses responsibly and prioritize the safety of the communities where they operate. He called on the public to report any filling stations or gas outlets that they suspect are violating regulations to the NMDPRA office.

This latest enforcement action in Ogun follows a similar crackdown last week in Delta State, where the NMDPRA sealed 19 illegal cooking gas outlets. These outlets were closed due to safety concerns and their lack of proper licenses. The NMDPRA is responsible for issuing licenses to oil and gas operators in Nigeria’s midstream and downstream sectors, ensuring that they meet safety and regulatory standards.