The Akwa Ibom State Petroleum Products Monitoring Committee will develop a database for kerosene surface tank dealers, to trace sources of adulterated kerosene, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Petroleum Matters Obong Essien Esema has said.
He spoke in Uyo at a sensitisation meeting of stakeholders on kerosene fire incidents.
Esema, the chairman of the committee, said accreditation of surface tank dealers would identify sources of contaminated products in cases of explosion.
โIn areas where there are reported cases of kerosene adulteration or explosion, we will ensure the sale of kerosene is stopped.
โWe will ensure petroleum storage tanks, receptacles and transporting trucks are properly colour-coded,โ he said.
The governorโs aide directed dealers to paint their receptacles blue with white stripes in the middle of the tanks, to indicate they are dealers.
He said non-compliance would result in prosecution.
Esema, who lamented that in the last one year, 48 cases of kerosene explosions were reported, said dealers would undergo mentoring programme.
He said the programme would require them to operate under the supervision of an independent or major marketer, to ensure quality products supply.
Esema said the process would expose the dealers to safety measures required to make the products usage safe.
He advised kerosene consumers not to refill their lanterns or stoves while the devices are hot.
โIt is advisable to fill a kerosene lantern and stove outdoors, using a fill spout. Kerosene should be stored away from heat or ignition sources.โ
Speaking on behalf of the dealers, Mrs. Lucy Eyo thanked the committee for organising the meeting.
She said the dealers would cooperate with the government to curb kerosene explosion.
Eyo said dealers would comply with safety measures and appealed for regular supply of kerosene through authorised sources.
She said no dealer would patronise unknown sources if the product was available through authorised channels.
