…FG probes incident
The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri has directed the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority to launch a thorough investigation into the tanker explosion that claimed the lives of over 100 people in Jigawa State.
Over 100 persons were reported burnt to death, 50 others injured as petrol tanker explodes in Majiya Town, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa state on Tuesday.
The Police Spokesperson in Jigawa, Mr Shi’isu Adam, confirmed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday.
He also said that 50 other persons had been hospitalised for varying degree of injury due to the explosion.
”At about 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday in Majia Town, Taura local government area of Jigawa, the tanker driver lost control near Khadija University and it exploded.
“The driver left Kano and was heading to Nguru in Yobe. when the accident happened,” Adam said.
He said: ”we are worried that in-spite of police warning for people to steer clear from scenes of accidents involving fuel tankers, they still engage in such acts.
”People gathered around the accident scene, that is the reason for the mass casualty,” he said. While a mass burial of the victims was conducted on Wednesday the injured were receiving medical attention at the Ringim General Hospital.
The minister of State for Petroleum expressed regrets over the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate incident.
His Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Nneamaka Okafor stated in a statement that Lokpobiri extended his heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected by the devastating incident.
The statement read: “The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic petrol tanker explosion in Majiya Town, Taura Local Government Area, Jigawa State, which resulted in the loss of over 100 lives and left dozens more injured.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the Federal Government, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones affected by this devastating incident.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured, and we wish them a swift and full recovery.
“The Minister has instructed the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority to promptly commence a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.”
The Minister also urged Nigerians to avoid approaching vehicles transporting petroleum products that have been involved in accidents or mechanical failures.
He called on petroleum transporters to ensure that only certified drivers who comply with safety standards, as stipulated by the Federal Road Safety Corps, are employed to transport petroleum products.
“While we understand the temptation to scavenge, the dangers of attempting to collect spilt fuel cannot be overstated. The tragic loss of lives in this incident serves as a stark reminder of the severe risks involved.
“The Ministry remains committed to ensuring the safety of Nigerians in all aspects of petroleum product distribution and transport. We will continue to work closely with all relevant stakeholders to enforce stricter safety measures and prevent future occurrences.”