Connect with us

People & Lifestyle

ISPYGH 247 petitions FDA to ban the importation of large quantities of Nitrous Oxide/ laughing gas

Published

on

Akwasi Koranteng, CEO of ISPYGH 247, a private investigative documentary filmmaking firm focused on public health has petitioned the Food and Drugs Authority of Ghana to ban the importation of large quantities of Nitrous Oxide.

Here is a copy of the petition below:

 

The Chief Executive Officer,

Advertisement

Food and Drugs Authority (FDA),

Ghana.

Dear Madam,

PETITION: BAN THE IMPORTATION OF LARGE QUANTITIES OF NITROUS OXIDE.

Advertisement

We, ISPYGH 247, a private investigative documentary filmmaking firm focused on public health, specifically the medicine ecosystem in Ghana, petition the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), to take immediate action to address the growing concerns regarding misuse and abuse of nitrous oxide also known as laughing gas, nitro, N2O, NOS, nangs, whippet, hippy crack, buzz bomb or balloons.

BACKGROUND

Our team has investigated and found nitrous oxide readily available on e-commerce websites, beaches, clubs, and pubs in Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi, Tema, and Somanya.

The product is sold in cans and balloons, facilitating its recreational use. Its easy availability and unregulated sale have contributed to its widespread misuse which poses significant health risks to users, particularly the youth.

Advertisement

REQUESTS

We request that the FDA:

1.⁠⁠ Bans the importation of larger quantities of nitrous oxide:

More specifically, restrict imports to only medical and industrial purposes, with strict licensing and monitoring.

Advertisement

2.⁠⁠ Regulate the sale of nitrous oxide:

Limit sales to authorized medical and industrial suppliers, and ensure proper storage and handling.

13.⁠⁠ Enforce strict penalties:

Impose severe sanctions on individuals and businesses found selling or misusing nitrous oxide for recreational purposes.

Advertisement

4.⁠⁠ Public awareness campaigns:

Conduct nationwide education campaigns highlighting nitrous oxide abuse’s dangers.

5.⁠⁠ Collaborate with law enforcement:

Work closely with agencies to monitor and prevent illicit trade.

Advertisement

JUSTIFICATION

The ban and regulation of nitrous oxide importation and sale will:

1.

Protect public health, particularly the youth, from the harmful effects of nitrous oxide abuse.

Advertisement

2.

Reduce the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities associated with its recreational use.

3.

Align Ghana with international best practices in regulating hazardous substances.

Advertisement

CONCLUSION

We urge the FDA to take prompt action to address this critical issue. Your leadership in regulating nitrous oxide will contribute significantly to safeguarding the health and well-being of Ghanaians.

We have painstakingly conducted an investigation, documenting our findings in a comprehensive documentary that will be published soon for the general public. Please have our highest assurances relative to further cooperation in this matter .

Thank you for considering our petition.

Advertisement

Signed

Akwasi Koranteng

CEO

ISPYGH 247

Advertisement

[email protected]

Date: 18/09/2024

Cc:

Vice President, Presidency.

Advertisement

Minister, Ministry of Health

President, Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana

Registrar, Pharmacy Council Ghana

Registrar, Medical and Dental Council

Advertisement

Registrar Nursing and Midwifery Council

Registrar, Psychological Council

Registrar, Health Facilities Regulatory Agency

Registrar, Traditional Medicine Practice Council

Advertisement

The Media

Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Advertisement

Ghana Club 100

Advertisement
You want to bet with the best odds on every football match? bestbets.com.gh shows you the highest odds for all important games.