As Nigerians groan under the hardship imposed by fuel scarcity, the Kaduna State Security Council Tuesday agreed to ban the sale of petroleum products in jerry cans throughout the 23 Local Government Areas of the State.
The council unanimously agreed to the ban in view of the legal and security implications as well as environmental hazards posed by petroleum products in jerry cans.
A statement issued by Samuel Aruwan, media aide to Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, said council noted the difficulties imposed by the current fuel scarcity and appealed to citizens to remain patient.
It assured the public that the state government is working with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, and other agencies to reduce the hardship associated with the shortages of petroleum products.
“Council also observed that the unsafe handling of petroleum products during periods like this has been associated with fires, destruction and fatal consequences for innocent victims.
“The council further warned those engaged in sabotage and illegal sale of petroleum products in the state to desist with immediate effect.
“The Security Council also directed the arrest and prosecution of any one found violating the ban, and the outright confiscation of any petroleum products found in their possession”, Mr. Aruwan said.
The council, therefore, urged residents of the state to help uphold and enforce the Kaduna State Petroleum Products (Anti-Hoarding and Adulteration) Law of 1992, which empowers a task force to ensure that petrol is sold in a safe manner, and imposes a financial penalty on violators.
The State Security Council meeting, which was chaired by Governor El-Rufai, had in attendance, the Deputy Governor, Arc. Barnabas Yusuf Bala; representatives of the Army, Air Force, Navy, Police, SSS, Civil Defence, Customs, Immigration, NDLEA, FRSC, chairman Kaduna State Council of Emirs and Chiefs, HRH Alhaji Shehu Idris, Emir of Zazzau; HRH Alhaji Zubairu Jibril Maigwari II, Ameer of Birnin Gwari and HRH Paul Zakka Wyom, Kpop Gwong.
