Ogun State Government Takes Action Following Explosion, Seals Off Gas Company for Negligence

By: Emmanuel Ibitoye

Following the tragic explosion in the Ita-Oshin area of Abeokuta North Local Government Area on Saturday, the Ogun State Government has taken swift action by sealing off Gasco Marine Ltd, the company involved in the incident. The explosion resulted in one fatality, two injuries, and extensive damage to vehicles, buildings, and shops along the roadside.

Farouq Akintunde, Senior Special Assistant to the Ogun State Governor on Environment and Chairman of the Special Task Force on Environmental Matters, announced the decision to seal the premises of Gasco Marine Ltd located in Onijoganjogan, Abeokuta. Akintunde attributed the accident to the company’s negligence, emphasizing the urgent need for stringent safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

“Our preliminary investigation shows that the incident was due to negligence on the part of the company, as they failed to take necessary precautions with the truck involved,” Akintunde stated. He underscored the importance of conducting comprehensive safety and audit tests on all trucks operated by the company to mitigate risks effectively. As part of the regulatory process, the company’s premises will remain closed until all necessary safety protocols have been implemented.

Despite the closure, Akintunde assured that the state government remains committed to maintaining a balance between enforcing safety regulations and supporting business activities. He emphasized that the company would be allowed to resume operations once it demonstrates compliance with safety standards and fulfills all regulatory requirements.