News
Don’t misuse ‘laughing gas’ – FDA cautions public
• Laughing gas is used in some pubs
The public has been cautioned against the misuse of Nitrous Oxide gas also known as ‘laughing gas’ due to its extremely hazardous effects.
Abusers of Nitrous Oxide gas are prone to suffocating and loss of consciousness whilst long-term recreational use (abusers) could also compromise the immune system, cause low blood pressure, heart attack and anaemia.
In a statement signed by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) Ms Delese Mimi Darko, she said the misuse of the ‘laughing gas’ could also cause mental and neurological disorders (hand and foot numbness and limb spasms), depression and incontinence.
The Authority said its attention had been drawn to the abuse or misuse of Nitrous Oxide gas at nightclubs and parties in the forms of balloons and canisters to induce euphoria and laughter.
The FDA has thus strongly admonished nightclubs, pubs and party organisers to desist from the inappropriate use of Nitrous Oxide gas in their facilities. The public is also thereby urged to promptly report to the Authority on the abuse of Nitrous Oxide gas at such facilities.
The Authority has pledged to collaborate with other relevant stakeholder agencies to address the emerging safety concerns.
In the meantime, the FDA assures the public of its commitment in ensuring public health and safety through continuous public education, engagement and sensitisation of the public on the risks of substances of abuse.
According to the FDA, Nitrous Oxide gas is used as a propellent and a preservative in the food industry and as a medical anaesthetic analgesic.
By Spectator Reporter
News
New BoG governor can’t engage in official duties – Afenyo-Markin to Mahama
The Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo Markin has raised concerns over the assumption of official duties by Dr. Johnson Asiamah as Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG).
The former Deputy Governor was recently nominated by President John Dramani, on January 31, 2025, to serve as Governor, pending approval by the Council of State.
This follows a formal request by the current Governor, Dr. Ernest Addison, to proceed on leave ahead of his retirement on March 31, 2025.
However, in a letter to President Mahama dated February 4, Minority Leader raised serious concerns with Dr. Asiamah’s assumption of office in the absence of the Council of State.
“Your Excellency, it is my considered view that Dr. Johnson Asiamah should refrain from engaging in official duties at the Bank of Ghana until his nomination has been duly approved by the Council of State. While awaiting confirmation, he can seek any necessary briefings outside the formal assumption of office,” the letter noted.
He added, “I trust that due attention will be given to this matter to uphold the integrity of our institutional processes.”
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Read full statement below
News
Bagbin lifts suspension of four MPs
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has lifted the suspension of four Members of Parliament (MPs) who were suspended after a clash during the vetting session on Thursday, January 30, 2025.
The altercation occurred between Minority and Majority MPs, escalating tensions in Parliament. The disagreement reached a peak after the suspension of the four MPs, triggering a debate over whether the vetting should proceed on January 31, 2025.
Following the suspension, the Minority MPs walked out, leaving only the Majority to continue with the vetting of nominees, including that of MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who had already undergone several hours of questioning by the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin.
The lifting of the suspension comes after a review of the incident. The four MPs – Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Jerry Ahmed Shaib and Alhassan Tampuli – are now expected to resume their parliamentary duties as normal. The move seeks to restore order in Parliament following the disruptions.
This was after both the majority leader and minority leader appealed to the Speaker of Parliament to lift the ban on the four MPs.
Alban Bagbin said, “So I have lifted the suspension order. I do so instantly and takes effect immediately. The affected Hon. Members are permitted now to enter the precincts of the house. I must say they actually complied with the orders.”
He assured that the investigations will continue, and the House will have the opportunity to make a decision.
He commended the security agencies for their support.
Source : Citinewsroom.com
