As a result of dangers posed by gas explosions to human population, the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) in Nigeria and the National Industrial Safety Council of Nigeria (NISCN) have begun a stakeholders consultation to embark on campaign against establishment of gas plants in residential areas.
Ambassador Duri Hezekiah, Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission, IHRC Nigeria during a consultation meeting at IHRC Headquarters with stakeholders in Abuja, expressed concerns over the existence of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) facilities in residential areas and the potential dangers they pose to the lives and properties of our fellow citizens.
Ambassador Hezekiah, who was represented by Head of Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria, Mr. Fidelis Onakpoma, said the alarming frequency of gas explosions and the devastating consequences they bring have prompted the Commission to take action to address the critical issue.
“Through a collaborative effort between the IHRC, Nigeria, and the National Industrial Safety Council of Nigeria (NISCN), we aim to enforce international safety standards, monitor compliance, and establish penalties for those who fail to adhere to regulations.
“We firmly believe that safety standards must apply to every individual or organization involved in the installation, alteration, maintenance, or operation of gas technologies in Nigeria”, he said.
On his part, the National President of NISCN, Dr Festus Daniel said energy production, particularly through gas plants, has undoubtedly played a significant role in driving our economy forward.
Dr Daniel who was represented by Omoba Oyediran said however, progress must not be allowed to come at the expense of the citizens’ lives and their fundamental rights.
He said it is important to strike a delicate balance between development and the protection of human rights, especially in the context of gas plants situated in residential areas.
“We cannot ignore the alarming consequences that have emerged due to the establishment and operation of gas plants in close proximity to where people live.
“The health hazards posed by emissions, the risks of explosions or accidents, and the overall disruption of the quality of life in these areas are matters that demand our immediate attention. The rights to environment, clean air, and adequate housing are fundamental human rights that must never be compromised”, Daniel said.
He charged stakeholders to pledge that they will take decisive action to curtail the endangering and human rights violations associated with gas plants in residential areas.
He said the government will establish and enforce a comprehensive regulatory framework that sets strict standards for the location, construction, and operation of gas plants.
Dr Daniel said the framework will include thorough risk assessments, environmental impact assessments, and adherence to safety protocols to mitigate the potential hazards associated with these facilities.
He said the government will prioritize community engagement and consultation in the decision-making process regarding the placement of gas plants, and establish mechanisms for dialogue, transparency, and accountability to ensure that the concerns and interests of the community are taken into consideration.
Furthermore, Dr Daniel stated that the government will bolster the country’s emergency response systems to effectively address any incidents or accidents that may occur in the vicinity of gas plants, and ensure that regular drills, and the deployment of advanced technology will be implemented to enhance our response capabilities.
Other stakeholders at the meeting include CSP Omar John Sini, Head of Investigation, Inspector-General of Police Special Task Force on Petroleum and Illegal Bunkering (IGP-STFPIB) and Engr Yahaya Bukur, Director Standards, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON).
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