The Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji, has urged fuel station owners and tanker operators to take immediate action in addressing reckless driving by their drivers, especially on major roads and dangerous bends.

He stated this following a tragic fuel tanker explosion in Niger State that claimed over 60 lives and left many others severely injured.

Speaking to the media shortly after the accident, Jaji emphasized the need for an urgent review of safety protocols governing fuel transportation across the nation.

He expressed concern over the rising frequency of tanker explosions and fuel station incidents, warning that even a small static spark or gas leak can result in rapid, deadly explosions.

Highlighting the dangers of scooping fuel from fallen tankers, Jaji described it as a highly fatal risk. “Fuel vapors and leaks can ignite at any moment. Your life is worth more than a few liters of fuel,” he cautioned.

The CG stressed that approaching a fuel spill is not only dangerous but could be fatal, urging the public to avoid accident sites and instead contact the Federal Fire Service and other emergency or first responders for prompt and appropriate intervention.

The Fire Service boss also called on Nigerians, particularly operators of fuel stations, gas refilling plants, and users of gas cylinders, to strictly follow safety measures to prevent further catastrophic events.

Jaji extended his condolences to the families affected by the recent tragedy and commended the first responders for their dedication, which he described as a testament to the nation’s resilience.

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Jaji noted the importance of prioritizing safety and public awareness to prevent similar incidents in the future. According to him, “Every life is precious, and we must do everything in our power to protect our citizens.”

Furthermore, he said the federal government is committed to enhancing safety awareness through his agency and called for the swift passage of the Fire Service Act of 1963, which is currently under review in the National Assembly.

Meanwhile, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has swiftly deployed an emergency rescue team to Dikko Junction along the Abuja-Kaduna expressway in Niger State, where the tragic tanker fire explosion occurred on Saturday along the Dikko-Maje road opposite Baddegi filling station.

In a communique, NEMA said reports by its field officers indicated that the explosion occurred after the crashing of a tanker loaded with PMS and an attempt was made to transfer its contents to another. In the process, the spilled PMS came in contact with the generator being used to power the transfer, triggering the inferno that claimed over 70 lives, injured more than 56 persons, and destroyed nearby shops and property.

“While most of the deaths were burnt beyond recognition, the injured persons have been evacuated to nearby hospitals for urgent medical attention. Most of the victims were members of the community and passers-by. However, the rescue evacuation is still ongoing,” the agency said.

According to the statement, the Director-General of NEMA, Zubaida Umar, has expressed deep sympathy for the victims and their families. She condemned the act of poor handling of spilled tankers, stressing the recurrent tragedies associated with such risky behaviour.

The DG of NEMA expressed regrets that despite the agency’s extensive public sensitisation campaigns with other stakeholders on the dangers of this practice, many individuals continue to ignore the warnings.

Under her directive, NEMA’s emergency team, led by the Head of NEMA Minna Operation Office, Mr. Hussaini Isah, is collaborating with first responders to manage the aftermath, including evacuating victims and providing necessary assistance to the affected community.

She also reiterated the agency’s commitment to public safety and the prevention of similar incidents through continued awareness and rapid response, pointing out that the incident serves as another grim reminder of the need for strict adherence to safety measures during such emergencies.