By Uduak Akai
UYO
Due to increasing incidents of petrol tanker accidents and attendant dangers it posses to humans and the environment, the state director, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Akwa Ibom State, has charged the chief orientation and mobilization officers (COMOs) of the 31 local government areas in the state to intensify efforts in the ongoing sensitization campaign on the dangers of fuel scooping in their respective local government areas.
Mr Mkpoutom Mkpoutom who made this known shortly before leaving for another official engagement outside the state, stated that all hands must be on deck to enlighten the people, especially in the rural communities, of the dangers this activity portends.
In his words, “The rampant cases of fallen tankers and their attendant hazards have been drawn to the attention of both government and well-meaning Nigerians, hence the dire need for citizens to be sensitized by the agency in line with its mandate”.
The NOA state director further highlighted some of the immediate health hazards of scooping fuel from a fallen tanker to include: skin irritations, respiratory problems, dizziness, headaches and even unconsciousness.
He disclosed that one of the most pressing dangers of scooping fuel from a fallen tanker is a potential fire explosion, adding that petroleum products are highly inflammable and could easily trigger a catastrophic incident endangering not only the individuals scooping fuel but also first responders and nearby communities.Mkpoutom maintained that while the temptation of scooping fuel from a fallen tanker may arise in moments of desperation or opportunism, the severe risks and environmental dangers associated with this act are far-reaching and it is imperative that individuals recognize the potential consequences not only for themselves but for the wider communities.
He charged the agency to ensure public safety by continuing its job on public awareness adhering strictly to its mandate of ensuring responsible behaviour among citizens.
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