The government of Anambra State has announced plans to commence removal of gas skids operating within petrol stations across the state.
Executive Chairman of Anambra Physical Planning Board, Barrister Chike Maduekwe, stated this while speaking with journalists at the Board’s Headquarter at Amawbia.
He stressed that the joint task force instituted last year have since been mandated by Governor Obiano to execute the operation.
The Chairman who described the recent Onitsha petrol station fire incident as unfortunate, stated that approval for the station was actually secured over ten years ago, emphasizing that the major issue is with the siting of gas skid within the premises which runs contrary to State laws.
He recalled the meeting previously held with operators of petrol stations in the state last year, where they agreed to remove such where they exist, before the advent of COVID and End Sars protest, pointing out that as a result, notices were served on them within the same period.
Barrister Maduekwe assured that the state Physical Planning Board is competent and remain committed to their constitutional duty as they enjoy robust relationship with everyone including the State Legislature
On the fuel station under construction around DMGS roundabout, Onitsha, Barrister Maduekwe who is also the Special Adviser to Governor Obiano on Digital Economy stated that they did not give approval for any fuel station at the location.
He appreciated Governor Obiano for supporting the Board to discharge its duties which increased its revenue-base to over one billion naira as at early 2021, unlike the 225 million naira they met in 2019, but regretted that the State revenue is going down due to series of activities that affected it adversely.
Barrister Maduekwe called on ndi Anambra to continue being law-abiding which he said helps optimize their services for the good of all.
BY SUNNY A. DAVID
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