President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conveyed profound sorrow over the devastating tanker explosion in Niger State that claimed more than 80 lives and left several others injured. The tragic incident occurred on Saturday at Dikko Junction in Gurara Local Government Area, sending shockwaves across the nation.
In a statement released by the President’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the government of Niger State. He expressed deep sadness over the loss of lives and emphasized the preventable nature of such tragedies, particularly highlighting the risks involved when people gather to scoop fuel from overturned tankers.
“President Tinubu mourns the victims and shares the grief of the families who have suffered unimaginable losses,” the statement read. He further urged citizens to stay away from accident scenes involving fuel to avoid similar catastrophic events.
Reports indicate that many of the victims were attempting to collect Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from the overturned tanker when the explosion occurred. This practice, though often driven by poverty and economic desperation, poses significant dangers to both human life and the environment.
In response to the tragedy, Tinubu has ordered the provision of urgent medical care for the injured and directed road safety and security agencies to strengthen preventive measures against such incidents. The President emphasized the need for a proactive approach to ensure public safety on highways.
Additionally, Tinubu has instructed the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to commence a nationwide educational campaign.
