Reps task regulators to enforce rules on siting of gas stations

The House of Representatives on Wednesday tasked regulatory bodies to strictly enforce rules on the siting of gas filling stations and outlets to ensure public safety.

This followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by the member representing Apapa Federal Constituency, Hon. Adesola Samuel Adedayo, under urgent national importance on the need to enforce regulatory rules on the siting of gas filling stations and outlets, and manage emergencies arising from a gas explosion in Apapa Federal Constituency, Lagos State.

While moving the motion, the lawmaker said that the House, “notes with grave concern the incident of a gas explosion which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, 5 May 2026, along Adeleye Street, area of Apapa Federal Constituency, Lagos State.

“Further notes that the explosion took place at a site where construction activities are ongoing at the back of two shops, leading to extensive damage to nearby structures, huge financial and material losses, and serious injuries of varying degrees to five individuals, one of whom was a student on his way to school.

“Cognisant that the swift response of residents of the neighbourhood and State Fire Service personnel to mitigate the disaster by conveying the victims to Gbagada General Hospital and other nearby health facilities for prompt medical attention and treatment is commendable.

“Concerned about the recurring incidence of gas explosions in such high-density, low-income residential areas and the huge losses of lives and property.”

He urged the House “to mandate the regulatory bodies responsible for the siting of gas filling stations and outlets to strictly enforce location rules, and to mandate the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant agencies to urgently provide relief materials to affected victims.”

When the motion was put to a voice vote by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, who presided over the plenary, it was unanimously supported by members.

It was thereafter referred to the relevant House committee for further legislative action.

Speaking with newsmen after the presentation of the motion, the lawmaker said his concern was for all citizens of the country and not Lagos State alone.

He urged citizens to prioritise environmental safety above commercial considerations, citing the Apapa explosion, the devastating effects of which were enormous and severe.