The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has warned against the act of scooping petrol from crashed tankers due to the inherent dangers it poses to lives and property in the environment.
The State Director of the Akwa Ibom State Directorate of the Agency, Mr. Mkpouto Mkpouto, issued this warning while leading an enlightenment campaign against such practices during the Editorial Committee Meeting of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Akwa Ibom State, on Monday.
He noted that many Nigerians have lost their lives in various parts of the country while attempting to scoop petrol from tankers involved in accidents.
According to Mkpouto, scooping petrol is not only akin to stealing but is also fraught with significant risks.
“Although such crashes have not occurred in Akwa Ibom State, we want to be proactive by advising people to refrain from scooping and stealing what does not belong to them.
“We are telling the people of Akwa Ibom that if it ever happens, please don’t go there. The moment you see petrol flowing from the tanker, run for your dear life,” he cautioned.
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Mkpouto also commended the Akwa Ibom State government for its swift response to the recent cholera outbreak in Emeroke community, Eastern Obolo Local Government Area, noting that the intervention has brought the situation under control.
He attributed the outbreak to poor sanitation and the absence of clean water in the community.
He further warned residents against open defecation and poor personal hygiene, emphasizing that cholera is preventable as it is not an airborne disease.
He urged people to report any disease outbreak to health officials for immediate response, adding that the swift intervention by the state government was crucial in curbing the spread of the cholera outbreak.
“We want to advise our people to take measures to prevent any future outbreaks of the disease.
“We need to be especially cautious, particularly those living in coastal communities. The water they drink and their sanitation practices are critical when it comes to preventing cholera.
“Everyone should have a proper toilet system. We must discourage open defecation, maintain clean environments, and we thank the state government for its prompt response,” he stated.
The NOA State Director also reiterated his warning against scooping petrol from crashed tankers, urging residents to prioritize their safety and avoid endangering lives and property.
Additionally, he cautioned against the indiscriminate location of gas stations in residential areas, emphasizing that such practices pose significant risks to the public. He urged operators to adhere strictly to government guidelines.
