Helen Okechukwu
In Nigeria, illegal refineries without proper infrastructure have been producing a dangerous alternative to kerosene: “kpo fire.” As the country’s limited number of refineries cease operation, many have turned to this hazardous method in order to make ends meet. Unfortunately, adulterated kerosene poses a serious threat to individuals using it for everyday tasks such as cooking and processing food.
Despite the dangers, Nigerians who cannot afford alternative fuel sources often resort to using this contaminated product. The nation’s citizens have been paying the ultimate price for the lack of safe resources, as many have experienced severe health problems or even lost their lives due to kpo fire’s effects.
While the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) lists three refineries under its management – the Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company, the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company, and Port Harcourt Refining – none have been operational since 2021. In this state of disrepair, Nigerian citizens continue to rely on dangerous and unchecked sources to keep themselves and their families safe.
Overall, Nigeria’s lack of resources for clean and safe kerosene production has forced individuals into a perilous position. For the nation to overcome this issue, new solutions must be found to ensure that all Nigerians have access to safe and reliable energy sources. Until then, the use of unsafe resources such as adulterated kerosene will continue to pose a serious threat to the population’s health and well-being.
The production and use of adulterated kerosene poses a grave threat to both those who manufacture it and those who use it. This hazardous product is a ticking time bomb, ready to cause devastating explosions that can claim countless lives. Unfortunately, recent events in Nigeria have shown just how deadly these illegal refineries can be, with more than twelve people losing their lives in a massive explosion caused by one such operation in the Emuoha Local Government Area.
Despite increased raids by the Nigerian government to root out these illicit refineries, the danger persists. The lack of safe and reliable resources for kerosene production has forced many people to turn to these dangerous alternatives, putting their lives and the lives of their loved ones at risk.
Adulterated kerosene is a pervasive issue that has wreaked havoc on Nigerian society. From lung disease to fertility problems, the health risks associated with its use are alarming. The situation is made all the more tragic by the fact that many of the victims in these cases have been innocent bystanders, caught in the crossfire of failing infrastructure and a desperate population.
Victim’s Narrative…
Despite the stigma attached to physical scars, a courageous young woman has made the brave decision to embrace and admire the scars on her skin as a mark of beauty. Sadly, many other victims of similar circumstances often remain silent in fear of being identified and stereotyped.
Dorcas Nemene, a victim of an adulterated kerosene fire in her twenties, recounted the harrowing incident that almost claimed her life on February 15, 2016, in Bori, Khana Local Government Area, Rivers State. The tragic event, which she still struggles to describe, left her building damaged and caused the fire to spread to neighboring buildings.
Despite the trauma and challenges that have come with being a victim of a kerosene explosion, Dorcas remains focused on achieving her dreams. She refuses to let the ordeal define her, even going so far as to embrace her scars and see them as a source of beauty.
Unfortunately, stories like Dorcas’ are all too common in Nigeria, where the lack of safe and reliable resources for kerosene production has forced many people to turn to dangerous alternatives. The consequences of such acts of adulteration have been nothing short of disastrous, devastating countless families and communities across the country.
Picture Of Dorcas with Scars caused by kerosene
Dorcas used to take great pride in her body before the catastrophic event that left her scarred. Coping with the reality of her new appearance was initially difficult for her, given her deep affection for her body. However, with the help of her family and friends, she managed to come to terms with her new reality and move forward.
Unfortunately, the fire that caused her scars also claimed her grandmother’s life. In addition to dealing with her own physical and emotional scars, Dorcas had to grapple with the loss of a beloved family member. Despite this tragic event, she continued to draw strength from her loved ones and remained determined to keep moving forward.
Through it all, Dorcas retained her positive outlook on life. She had no choice but to accept her fate, but she refused to let the accident define her. Instead, she focused on healing and building a new life for herself, surrounded by the people she loved most.
PC: Helen Okechukwu, Adulterated Kerosene.
Many individuals have bemoaned the fact that the government has not taken nearly enough action as a result of adulterated kerosene sending so many people to an early grave. The citizens have not acknowledged their efforts to stop the sale of adulterated kerosene. Refineries should have the appropriate infrastructure in place set up by the government, and those who produce tainted kerosene should be employed.
Dorcas has experienced difficulties as a result of discrimination by some members of society. A society that ought to make her feel comfortable and safe became the hard rock. She occasionally experiences depression, sometimes even going so far as soaking her pillow. She is even addressed about the scars which affect her mental state.
She also gave advice regarding fire accidents and how individuals should handle discrimination from society. Her words were impactful, as she spoke from experience and acknowledged her own moments of feeling sad and affected. However, she also pointed out that survivors of these experiences should be empowered and the happiest people on earth.
