The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, has issued a strong warning against unauthorised gas retail operations nationwide, stressing that the Federal Government is prepared to take decisive action against violators.
The warning follows the recent gas explosion in the Biodun Alaadun area of Ona Ara Local Government in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Friday night, which claimed three lives.
Reports revealed that the blast happened while a tanker was discharging gas into a retail facility. Ekpo, while extending sympathy to the families affected, stated that illegal gas retailing will no longer be tolerated within the downstream sector.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic gas explosion that occurred on Friday, 21 November 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
“My heartfelt condolences go to the Government and people of Oyo State, especially the families who lost loved ones and those who sustained injuries.
“Preliminary reports indicate that the explosion occurred while a gas tanker was offloading LPG into a 2.5MT illegal skid situated within a densely populated neighbourhood.
“The resulting blast caused extensive damage to nearby homes, shops, and a church. This incident was needless and entirely preventable. It is unacceptable for anyone to endanger lives by operating illegal gas facilities or engaging in unsafe practices”, the statement partly said.
Ekpo added that while gas remains a safe cooking option, issues such as poor-quality equipment, carelessness, and failure to secure required operating licences often contribute to such explosions.
“Gas is safe when handled responsibly. It is negligence, the use of substandard equipment, and unlawful operations that lead to tragedies such as this.”
He confirmed that the Federal Government has launched an investigation into the incident. Residents and witnesses were encouraged to support investigators, as he cautioned that all illegal gas businesses will be shut down.
“The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has commenced a full investigation into the incident.
“I urge residents and eyewitnesses to cooperate with investigators so that the exact cause can be established and future occurrences prevented. Let me be clear: illegal operators must immediately vacate the sector.
“The Federal Government will not hesitate to shut down unsafe sites, prosecute offenders, and enforce all safety regulations to protect lives, property, and public confidence in Nigeria’s gas sector”, he wrote.