A mass burial has taken place for 140 victims of a deadly petrol tanker explosion in Majiya town, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State. The disaster, which occurred on Tuesday night, left another 90 individuals in various hospitals receiving treatment. The explosion was caused when a tanker travelling from Kano to Nguru in Yobe State overturned, sparking a fire as residents rushed to scoop the spilt petrol.
Explosion Sparked by Fuel Scooping, 94 Killed onsite
According to the Jigawa State Police Command, the explosion was ignited when locals attempted to collect fuel from the overturned tanker. Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Lawan Adam, described the scene as a “horrific tragedy,” explaining, “The residents were scooping fuel from the overturned tanker when the explosion occurred, sparking a massive inferno that killed 94 people on the spot.” Another 50 were severely injured and rushed to local hospitals for urgent care.
Federal Government Orders Investigation
In response to the disaster, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, has ordered an immediate investigation into the explosion. Minister Heineken Lokpobiri expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident, saying, “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.” The Minister also urged the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority to investigate the circumstances leading to the explosion and ensure stricter safety protocols for petroleum transporters.
Tinubu Calls for Fuel Transport Safety Review
President Bola Tinubu has directed a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s fuel transportation safety protocols following the tragedy. Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu offered his condolences to the bereaved families, stating, “This devastating incident has shaken us all to our core. The Federal Government stands with the people of Jigawa. We are mobilising all necessary resources to support the injured and assist the families affected by this calamity.” Shettima also called for the deployment of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to aid the victims and highlighted the importance of public safety and awareness in preventing future tragedies.
Safety and Accountability Urged
Both the Minister of Petroleum and Vice President Shettima have emphasised the importance of ensuring strict safety measures for the transportation of petroleum products. Lokpobiri urged petroleum transporters to hire certified drivers who adhere to safety regulations, while Shettima stressed that “every life is precious, and we must do all we can to protect our citizens.” The Vice President also praised first responders for their efforts in handling the emergency, saying their dedication “exemplifies the best of our nation’s spirit.”
This event has prompted calls for urgent reforms in road safety and fuel transport, as leaders across Nigeria seek to prevent future tragedies like the one that has claimed over 100 lives in Jigawa State.
