Precious Folorunso 

A public affairs commentator from the department of politics and governance, Kwara State University, Malete- Dr. Salawu Ibrahim, says it is quite disturbing that Nigerians are only careful after a deadly incident has occurred and not before.

Ibrahim made this claim while featuring on the weekdays breakfast show at Diamond 88.7FM, Ilorin Kwara State- “Diamond Breakfast show” on Friday, 16th of August, 2024.

Recall that a fire incident  occurred on Thursday where a househelp reportedly set ablaze a four bedroom flat of her employer in Ilorin, Kwara State Capital, in an attempt to ignite a gas cooker in the residence. 

The head of department and spokesperson of Kwara state’s  fire service, Mr Hassan Adekunle confirmed the incident and assured listeners that the maid is in good condition with no result of injury. 

He however, implored the people of Kwara to be more careful and always adhere to safety precautions not only with gas but with anything at all. He also advised to ensure to light the fire before putting on the gas as it is the proper way of handling a gas. 

Ibrahim insisted that the only way to ensure safety is by making it everyone’s responsibility and always be conscious of taking precaution.

“It is unfortunate that Nigerians begin to talk about safety measures only and after incidents like this happen.” 

“Safety is everybody’s business”

He added that the combustive  nature of gas is what makes it so dangerous. He therefore urged users on what is called Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and its usage. He also called on mothers to take precautionary measures and checks before lighting a gas and called for everyone’s sensitivity in terms of smell or leakages. 

“That is why we have benefit of elders…if the mothers would delegate cooking to the children, it should be after the lighting of gas has been done.”