Anambra Govt seeks law against industrial oxygen use in Hospitals

The Anambra State Government has demanded legislation to ban the use of industrial oxygen in Nigerian hospitals.

Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, made the call on Tuesday April 15, 2025, in Awka during a courtesy visit.

He visited Ms. Nwamaka Arinze, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Anambra State Oxygen Production Plant, to discuss the issue.

Mefor expressed concern over hospitals using industrial oxygen instead of medical-grade oxygen.

He described the trend as dangerous, unacceptable, and harmful to patients’ health.

“Industrial oxygen should never be used in hospitals,” he said.

He called on the National Assembly to enact laws outlawing its use in medical facilities.

Mefor said legislation must clearly state penalties for using industrial oxygen in hospitals.

“People go for cheap options despite the risks,” he added.

He condemned the practice as wicked and driven by greed for quick profits.

“It’s evil to endanger lives for extra money,” Mefor said.

He stressed the need for strict laws and tougher enforcement across the country.

Mefor blamed the persistence of illegal practices on poor enforcement.

He cited the shutdown of Bridgehead Drug Market by NAFDAC over fake and expired drugs as an example.

He said some traders prioritized money over human lives, worsening health risks in the system.

“The laws are there, but enforcement is weak,” he stated.

Mefor promised to partner with the Oxygen Plant to raise public awareness.

He said public education would help reduce the demand for dangerous alternatives in hospitals.

Arinze, MD of the Oxygen Plant, backed the Commissioner’s stance against industrial oxygen use.

She said the plant produces pure medical oxygen and maintains emergency reserves.

Arinze said educating health professionals remains a major challenge.

“Some doctors know industrial oxygen is wrong but still use it,” she noted.

She blamed poor medical ethics and lack of accountability for the continued use.

“Families still pay doctors even after preventable deaths,” she lamented.

Arinze thanked Governor Charles Soludo for prioritizing quality healthcare delivery in Anambra.

She urged stakeholders to join the campaign to protect lives.

“It’s our duty to save lives, not destroy them,” she said.

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