#Lagos #Assembly Calls for Stricter Safety Measures After Devastating #Gas Explosion

#Lagos #Assembly Calls for Stricter Safety Measures After Devastating #Gas Explosion

In the wake of a devastating gas explosion in Lagos’ Ajeromi/Ifelodun district, which claimed lives, the Lagos State House of Assembly has urged relevant government bodies to intensify the enforcement of safety regulations. The legislative body convened a session chaired by Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa on Monday, mandating the Ministries of Physical Planning and Urban Development, along with Special Duties, to bolster their oversight to safeguard citizens from the hazards of flammable materials sold in residential vicinities.

The Assembly expressed concern over the unchecked spread of gas retail outlets throughout the state, directing the Lagos State Safety Commission to rigorously apply the laws governing such establishments. This directive was highlighted in a press release from Eromosele Ebhomele, the Speaker’s Chief Press Secretary.

The Lagos Assembly has also extended its commendations to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) and Gbagada General Hospital for their prompt and efficient response to emergencies. Hon. Desmond Elliot (Surulere 1) personally observed the medical teams’ efforts to rescue individuals injured in recent fire incidents.

“Our healthcare system deserves praise for its performance,” he remarked, noting the effective inter-agency cooperation that has led to improved healthcare services across the state. “The dedication I saw firsthand in the treatment of burn victims at LASUTH and Gbagada General Hospital is a testament to a well-coordinated effort.”

Speaker Obasa underscored the importance of the legislature’s role in acknowledging and supporting such exemplary actions, stating, “It is our duty to recognize and applaud the MDAs when they excel. Should they fall short, it is equally our responsibility to highlight those areas for improvement.”

The House frowned against the proliferation of gas shops across the state and asked the Lagos State Safety Agency not to compromise on enforcement of laws regulating the activities of such outlets, a statement by Eromosele Ebhomele, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, said.

A recent gas explosion had led to the death of 15 residents with at least 35 others sustaining injuries according to their representative at the Lagos Assembly, Hon. Sabur Oluwa (Ajeromi Ifelodun 2).

The House urged the government to support the victims in the form of relief materials.

Before the lawmakers observed a minute silence for the victims of the explosion, Speaker Obasa sympathised with the affected constituents and emphasised the need to address the issue.

He acknowledged that gas regulation falls under the ‘exclusive list’, but urged the state to find a way around it to prevent further tragedies.

“Having gas shops and outlets within the community without proper regulations must be looked into. It calls for concern and we must look for a way out,” Dr. Obasa said as he directed the Clerk, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko, to communicate the resolution of the House to the appropriate authorities.

Meanwhile, the Assembly has commended the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) and the Gbagada General Hospital for their swift handling of emergency cases brought to the facilities.

Hon. Desmond Elliot (Surulere 1) said he witnessed how medical personnel at the two hospitals battled to save the lives of fire accident victims recently.

“Our health sector should be commended,” he said while acknowledging the collaboration between arms of government resulting in elevated healthcare standards in the state.

“The commitment and dedication I witnessed in the handling of fire victims at LASUTH and the Gbagada General Hospital are encouraging, reflecting a system where all hands were indeed on deck.

“When I got to the wards, I met over nine doctors and nurses attending to the victims at the LASUTH. I saw the same thing at the Gbagada General hospital,” he said.

#Lagos #Assembly Calls for Stricter Safety Measures After Devastating #Gas Explosion

Speaker Obasa, who emphasised the role of the legislative body in recognising and supporting such commendable endeavours, added: “This is exactly what the House is expected to do at all times.

“We will always commend the MDAs for a job well-done, and anywhere they falter, we will always point such out.”

Following his statement, he instructed the Clerk to send letters of appreciation to the heads of LASUTH, Gbagada General Hospital, and the Health Commissioner, Prof. Akin Abayomi, acknowledging their exceptional service

Eromosele Ebhomele
Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.