The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has expressed profound sorrow over the devastating fuel tanker explosion in Niger State, which claimed approximately 90 lives and left many injured. The Caucus has called for thorough investigations into the Niger tanker explosion, punitive measures, and urgent reforms to improve safety regulations and avert future tragedies.
The Niger tanker explosion, which occurred last weekend at Dikko Junction along the Abuja-Kaduna Highway in Gurara Local Government Area, was triggered when a tanker transporting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) lost control and ignited. The resulting inferno caused widespread fatalities, injuries, and significant property damage.
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In a joint statement signed by key Caucus leaders, including Rep. Kingsley Chinda, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ali Isa J.C., Minority Whip Rt. Hon. Aliyu Madaki, Deputy Minority Leader Rt. Hon. George Ozodinobi, and Deputy Minority Whip, the lawmakers described the incident as “shocking, saddening, and painful.”
“The Caucus is extremely sad and tearfully heartbroken that while some citizens paid the ultimate price, many others sustained varying degrees of injuries, including colossal loss of properties due to negligence,” the statement read.
Highlighting the recurring nature of tanker explosions across the country, the Caucus emphasised the urgent need for reform, stating, “Conscious of the damaging psychological effects on our people, the environment, and the economy, the Caucus calls for appropriate punitive measures against violators of transportation safety regulations.”
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The lawmakers also urged the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other relevant agencies to strengthen traffic management for tankers, trucks, and haulage vehicles to reduce the risk of such catastrophic incidents.
Further, they appealed to medical institutions to provide comprehensive care for the injured, ensuring their swift recovery.
The Minority Caucus demanded accountability, urging an investigation into the Niger tanker explosion to identify and punish those responsible. They also advocated for legislative measures to tackle the systemic issues contributing to the frequent occurrence of petrol tanker accidents in Nigeria.
“While we mourn with the victims’ families and the people of Niger State, we emphasise the need for accountability. These avoidable deaths should not be condoned,” the statement added.
The Caucus extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and offered prayers for the recovery of the injured. They reiterated the need to address systemic issues to prevent similar tragedies and safeguard the lives of Nigerians.
