Tinubu Mourns Niger Tanker Explosion Victims, Orders Enhanced Safety Measures

President Bola Tinubu has expressed his deep sorrow following the tragic fuel tanker explosion that claimed the lives of over 80 individuals and left many others injured. The devastating incident took place on Saturday at Dikko Junction on the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway in Gurara Local Government Area, Niger State, causing widespread destruction and a significant loss of life.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Bayo Onanuga, the President’s spokesman, conveyed the President’s condolences to the grieving families and to the people and government of Niger State. President Tinubu described the incident as both tragic and preventable, noting that many of the victims were individuals who were scooping Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from the overturned tanker, a dangerous act that led to the explosion.

Immediate Actions and Measures

The President has instructed that comprehensive medical care be provided to those injured in the blast, and he has called on security and road safety authorities to take swift action to prevent similar incidents in the future. To this end, President Tinubu has mandated that enhanced safety protocols be implemented on the nation’s highways, particularly around accident sites involving fuel-laden vehicles.

Public Safety Campaign

In a bid to mitigate future occurrences and raise public awareness, President Tinubu has also directed the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to launch a nationwide campaign. This campaign will aim to educate the public about the severe dangers and environmental risks associated with scooping fuel from fallen tankers. The President stressed the need for citizens to exercise greater caution, particularly in avoiding proximity to accident sites involving fuel tankers, which can easily lead to catastrophic explosions.

Words of Caution

The President strongly urged citizens to remain vigilant and avoid approaching accident scenes, especially those involving hazardous materials such as fuel. He emphasized the volatile nature of fuel-laden vehicles and the potential for disaster when safety protocols are ignored.

The call for greater public education and the strengthening of safety measures comes as the nation grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event, underscoring the importance of adherence to safety guidelines and community responsibility in preventing such disasters.