The Anambra State Government has called for national legislation to prohibit the use of industrial oxygen in hospitals, citing serious public health risks.
The State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, made the appeal on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to Ms. Nwamaka Arinze, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Anambra State Oxygen Production Plant in Awka.
Dr. Mefor expressed concern over the continued use of industrial oxygen in medical facilities, warning that it poses significant dangers to human health. He emphasized that industrial oxygen is unsuitable for human consumption and should be banned through legislation.
“Since it has been proven that industrial oxygen is not good for human consumption, it should be a legislative issue. There should be a law against it, with clear punishments outlined for its usage,” Mefor stated.
He noted that without a legal framework, individuals and institutions may continue to opt for cheaper but hazardous alternatives, despite the potential health consequences.
Highlighting the widespread use of industrial oxygen, the commissioner urged for strict legislation and severe penalties to deter the practice. He also referenced recent actions by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), including the shutdown of the Bridgehead Drug Market over the sale of fake, expired, and banned drugs.
Mefor criticized profit-driven practices that endanger lives, stressing that effective legislation and enforcement are essential to tackling the issue. He acknowledged existing challenges in law enforcement, particularly in Anambra State, but pledged the Ministry of Information’s support in driving awareness and collaboration with relevant authorities to address the problem.
