President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressed profound sorrow over the tragic fuel tanker explosion at Dikko Junction in Niger State, which claimed over 80 lives and left many others injured.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the President extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the government and people of Niger State.
He described the incident as a devastating and preventable tragedy, noting that many victims were reportedly scooping Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from the overturned tanker when it exploded.
“The loss of lives in this avoidable incident is deeply saddening. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and the injured,” Tinubu said.
The President has directed immediate and comprehensive medical care for the injured and tasked security and road safety authorities with enforcing measures to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Tinubu also urged citizens to exercise caution and refrain from approaching accident scenes involving fuel tankers due to their explosive nature.
In a proactive move, the President instructed the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to launch a nationwide educational campaign.
The campaign will focus on raising awareness about the severe dangers of scooping fuel from fallen tankers, emphasizing both safety risks and environmental hazards.
This directive underscores Tinubu’s commitment to safeguarding lives and preventing such catastrophic incidents from recurring.
