The Lagos State Government has warned the general public against indiscriminate handling and storage of combustible items.
A joint statement issued by the Honourable Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr. Olugbenga Oyerinde and Director-General, Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola at the weekend affirmed the commitment of Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to the safety of lives and protection of its citizenry devoid of hazards.
Oyerinde said it has become imperative to alert the public on the need to be more safety conscious; the risks inherent in transporting and handling combustible materials, fuels, chemicals and other dangerous goods are huge, leading to quantum loss of lives, property and litigations.
The Director-General, Lagos Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola in his remarks, said the value for lives cannot be quantified. He disclosed that the Commission has commenced a ‘SAFETY FOR YOU’ campaign aimed at making safety a priority for every Lagosian. The campaign, according to him, focuses on raising awareness and encouraging proactive safety measures in personal, occupational and business contexts.
The DG explained that stockpiles of chemicals and combustibles carry the risk of explosions and fire outbreaks under excessive temperature and pressure. He noted that our safety and that of our neighbours are sacrosanct and advised members of the public to take responsibility, saying “When you see something, please say something. An injury to one is an injury to all”.
While informing that officers of the Commission are already going around to ensure everywhere is safe for all and sundry, Mojola urged artisans and tradesmen to seek professional advice on handling combustible goods as well as moving them from one location to another within the State.
He implored the public to report stockpiles of any form of dangerous goods to 07000SAFETY or to the nearest security agencies.