As the festive season draws near, the Ondo State Government has issued a strong public safety advisory following a series of reported fire outbreaks across the state, particularly from gas retail outlets.
The Special Assistant to the Governor on Emergency Response, Hon. (Prince) Wellington Oriade Adebawo, raised the alarm on Friday after receiving multiple distress calls related to fire incidents involving gas retailers in different parts of the state.
In a statement released in Akure, Prince Adebawo urged residents and stakeholders in the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sector to exercise extreme caution and comply strictly with established safety protocols. He emphasized that proactive measures at this time are critical to averting further tragedies.
“With the increase in fire-related emergencies, we are urging all gas retailers to implement standard safety precautions immediately,” he stated. “We are entering a high-risk period, and we must not take chances.” He said.
The statement further cautioned against the use of fireworks or open flames near gas plants, filling stations, and residential areas. Prince Adebawo noted that such actions, though often associated with festive celebrations, have been responsible for avoidable fire disasters in the past.
He reaffirmed the Governor Aiyedatiwa-led administration’s commitment to public safety, warning that any fire incident traced to negligence or the reckless use of fireworks would attract strict sanctions from relevant authorities.
The Special Assistant also disclosed that the state’s emergency response units have been placed on heightened alert to ensure swift intervention in the event of fire outbreaks or related emergencies. He called on residents to report unsafe practices and cooperate with regulatory officials to safeguard lives and property.
In addition, Prince Adebawo directed all gas retailers and distributors across Ondo State to register with the Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Emergency Response. He explained that this registration would enable the government to build a comprehensive safety database, enhance monitoring, and ensure that all operators meet the minimum safety and compliance standards required by law.
The Special Assistant reiterated that the proactive step is aimed at strengthening the state’s safety architecture and preventing further loss of lives and property as the festive period approaches.
