It’s Time To End Tanker Explosion In Nigeria, Says VP Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic fuel tanker explosion that occurred in Enugu State, resulting in the loss of lives and injuries. The explosion took place on Saturday along the Ugwu-Onyeama section of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway after a tanker veered off course and burst into flames.

In his condolence message, Vice President Shettima, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, commiserated with the families of the victims and the people and government of Enugu State. He conveyed President Tinubu’s concerns regarding the increasing frequency of tanker accidents and explosions in Nigeria, emphasizing that such incidents, which are avoidable, must be stopped.

“It was with a heart full of sadness that I received news of the fuel tanker explosion that occurred on Saturday, January 25, 2025, in Ugwu Onyeama local government area of Enugu State. I am deeply saddened that another tanker accident would lead to the loss of lives of Nigerians, leaving others injured in this tragic incident,” Shettima said.

The Vice President further stated that President Tinubu is “seriously worried by the frequency of these tanker explosion incidents on public roads and residential areas,” which he referred to as preventable. Shettima reiterated that the government, under President Tinubu’s direction, is committed to taking all necessary actions to prevent further tanker accidents and explosions.

In line with the President’s directive, Shettima assured the public that the government would engage relevant agencies, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), as well as the Ministries of Transportation at both the federal and state levels, to develop solutions that would prevent such incidents in the future.

Shettima also offered heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and to the people of Enugu State. “I express my profound condolences to the government and people of Enugu State, particularly the families that lost their loved ones and those that are undergoing treatment for various degrees of injuries in the hospitals,” he said.

He concluded his statement by offering prayers for the departed and wishing a speedy recovery to those injured. “While my thoughts and prayers are with you, I pray Almighty God to grant eternal rest to the souls of the departed and a quick return to health for the injured.”