NEMA calls for stricter safety penalties, distributes aid after Calabar gas explosion

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is advocating for more stringent sanctions against individuals and organizations that breach safety regulations, aiming to reduce the frequency of man-made disasters across Nigeria. This call comes as the agency distributes relief materials to victims of a recent gas explosion in Calabar, Cross River State.

NEMA Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, represented at the distribution event by Mrs. Aisueni Mmandu, stated that many disasters could be avoided if safety rules were enforced and offenders held accountable. She cited the example of gas stations operating within residential areas without adequate firefighting equipment as a dangerous violation.

"It is wrong for a gas station to operate within a residential area without adequate firefighting equipment," Umar said. She urged authorities to prosecute violators and enhance monitoring systems to prevent future incidents. NEMA also emphasized the need for continuous public awareness campaigns on the safe handling of gas, electrical appliances, and combustible materials.

The relief distribution, conducted in partnership with the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), included rice, beans, garri, seasoning, vegetable oil, tomato paste, and detergent. Despite the aid, the distribution process faced delays due to discrepancies in beneficiary data.

To address these issues, NEMA announced plans to review its strategy and implement a voucher system for future distributions to ensure a smoother and more efficient delivery of aid to disaster victims. SEMA officials also highlighted their ongoing public enlightenment campaigns aimed at preventing fire outbreaks caused by negligence.

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It is wrong for a gas station to operate within a residential area without adequate firefighting equipment.