President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians to steer clear of accident sites involving fuel-laden vehicles, citing the high risk of explosions. This warning comes in the wake of a tragic tanker explosion at Dikko Junction, Gurara Local Government Area, Niger State, which claimed over 80 lives and left many injured.
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Niger State, describing the incident as a preventable tragedy.
A Preventable Disaster
The explosion, which occurred on Saturday, involved individuals scooping Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from an overturned tanker. Tinubu emphasized the dangers of such actions, calling for increased public awareness to prevent future occurrences.
“The President strongly advises all citizens to exercise caution and avoid approaching accident sites, especially those involving fuel-laden vehicles, due to their highly explosive nature,” the statement read.
Measures to Prevent Recurrence
To address the issue, Tinubu has directed the provision of comprehensive medical care for the injured and instructed security and road safety agencies to enhance measures that could avert similar incidents.
Additionally, the President has mandated the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to launch a nationwide awareness campaign about the risks and environmental hazards associated with scooping fuel from fallen tankers.
National Grief and Responsibility
The Dikko Junction explosion is one of the deadliest tanker-related accidents in recent years, highlighting the urgent need for improved road safety measures and public education.
President Tinubu’s response underscores the government’s commitment to addressing both the immediate and long-term consequences of such disasters, ensuring that lives and property are better protected in the future.