SENATOR Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State, Petroleum Resources (Oil), has directed the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), to investigate the circumstances surrounding petrol tanker explosion in Jigawa.
Lokpobiri expressed sorrow over the incident that occurred at Majiya Town in Taura LGA of Jigawa on Tuesday night, resulting in the loss of 105 lives and scores injured.
The Minister gave this directive in a statement on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Nneamaka Okafor.
In light of the incident, the minister urged petroleum transporters to ensure that only drivers who are certified and fully compliant with safety standards, as stipulated by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), are employed to transport petroleum products.
He reiterated commitment to ensure Nigerians’ safety in all aspects of petroleum product distribution and transport, adding that it would continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders to enforce stricter safety measures and prevent future occurrences.
“I wish to admonish Nigerians to desist from approaching vehicles transporting petroleum products that have been involved in accidents or mechanical failures.
“While we understand the temptation to freeload, the dangers of attempting to collect spilled fuel cannot be overstated.
“The tragic loss of lives in this incident serves as a grim reminder of the severe risks involved.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the Federal Government, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected by this devastating incident.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured, and we wish them a swift and full recovery,” the minister was quoted as saying in the statement.
Tinubu Sends Delegation
Meanwhile, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), to lead a federal government delegation to Jigawa in response to the tragedy.
The government delegation comprises Mohammed Badaru, Minister of Defence and Sen. Saidu Alkali, Minister of Transportation, Mr Shehu Mohammed, Corps Marshall of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and Abdullahi Yakasai, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North West).
While in Jigawa, the delegation will visit the scene of the incident to assess the situation and visit injured persons in the hospital, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser, Information and Strategy, said in a statement.
President Tinubu further directed that emergency aid, including medical supplies, food, and shelter, be extended to the 50 victims receiving treatment and others affected by the fire.
“The President, with a heavy heart, joins the Vice President in extending his deepest condolences to the families of the victims of this devastating incident.
“He expresses his heartfelt prayers and support to the government and people of Jigawa during this time of tragic loss and grief.
“He prays for divine comfort for the bereaved families and the peaceful repose for the souls of the departed,” said the statement.
Tinubu reassured the nation that the Federal Government, in collaboration with states, was committed to the swift and comprehensive review of fuel transportation safety protocols across the country.
He restated his directive to the FRSC to strengthen night travel measures, such as increased patrols, stricter enforcement of safety regulations and other highway safety mechanisms.
He said those found responsible for breaches of safety standards would be held accountable, reaffirming the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring such incidents do not recur. (NAN)
