Two arrested, event centre sealed over distribution of fuel as souvenirs

By Juliana Francis

Ogbulu

The souvenirs 

The Lagos State Government on Saturday sealed Havilah Event Centre in Victoria Island where kegs of PMS (petrol) were given to guests as souvenirs.

The state government through the Lagos Safety Commission and the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) has sealed the centre, stressing that it contravened Public and Safety Rules.

This was even as the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alabi, ordered for the arrest of culprits involved in the dangerous act.

The CP’s actions followed a viral video in the social media in which some individuals and organisers of an event were seen giving out kegs containing petrol as souvenirs.

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP), Mr. Adekunle Ajisebutu, in a press statement, said: “It's regrettable that in spite of series of warnings and sensitisations carried out by the Police and other relevant government agencies, some individuals are still handling such combustible substance in a public place in total disregard to safety of lives and property. Still concerned about the safety, and protection of lives and property of citizens, the Lagos State Police Command once again appeals to citizens to avoid this kind of condemnable act in the name of generosity. Although the event centre where the distribution of the souvenirs took place has been located and subsequently sealed, the CP in addition has ordered the arrest of all persons involved in this regrettable and reprehensible act.”

The kegs of fuel was said to have been shared at the installation ceremony of Chief Dr. Pearl Chidinma Ogbulu as Erelu Okin of Orile Kemta. The Erelu Okin, while apologizing for sharing fuel at the installation party via her Instagram handle, said: “My intent was just to show appreciation to my guests for turning up at my event at these hard times. I have paused to reflect and truly apologise and I thank you all for your understanding and criticisms."

The Lagos State Commissioner, Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, revealed that two officials of the centre were arrested had been arrested by the police following instructions from the Alabi that everyone involved should be arrested.

Omotoso stated: ‘There is no doubt that this action is dangerous and can lead to loss of lives and property.  It is blatantly against all safety measures in such places. The Lagos State Government through the Safety Commission is investigating this matter and will ensure that all parties to this reprehensible action are made to account for it. The safety of lives and properties of Lagosians and visitors remain a top priority to the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration. We, therefore, advise that actions that can lead to loss of lives and property be avoided.”