Deputy Speaker Kalu Mourns Victims of Enugu Tanker Explosion
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic fuel tanker explosion in Enugu State, which resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries.
The incident occurred on Saturday along the 9th Mile, 82 Division Expressway, Ugwuonyeama section, when a tanker loaded with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, collided with several vehicles and exploded, causing widespread devastation.
In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Press Affairs, Udora Orizu, Kalu extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the government and people of Enugu State. He prayed that the families would be granted the strength to endure the loss.
The Deputy Speaker also referenced a similar tragedy in Niger State, where another tanker explosion claimed the lives of over 80 people. He called on the federal government to prioritize the urgent completion of road rehabilitations, including the 9th Mile Expressway, to prevent further disasters.
“I am deeply saddened by the news of the fuel tanker explosion in Enugu State, which claimed several lives and left many others injured. This is yet another devastating tragedy, just days after a similar incident in Niger State that killed over 80 people. It’s one tragedy too many,” Kalu remarked.
He continued, “I extend my condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the government and people of Enugu State. We cannot afford to ignore the deplorable state of our roads, especially the 9th Mile Expressway. The Federal Government must take immediate action to address these issues and ensure the safety of our citizens.”
Kalu also stressed the need for authorities to implement safety measures and launch awareness campaigns to help prevent future incidents. He wished the injured a speedy recovery and urged relevant agencies to provide immediate relief materials to the affected families.
In closing, Kalu reaffirmed that the National Assembly would continue to support the federal government in addressing road safety concerns through budgetary allocations and legislative actions.
