Following the tragic fuel tanker explosion at Dikko Junction in Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State, which claimed over 80 lives and left many injured, President Bola Tinubu has called on citizens to steer clear of accident sites, particularly those involving fuel-laden vehicles, due to their highly explosive nature.
In a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the President expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Niger State. He lamented the preventable nature of the tragedy, noting that many lives were lost as individuals attempted to scoop Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from the overturned tanker.
To address the situation, Tinubu directed the provision of comprehensive medical care for the injured and instructed security and road safety agencies to implement preventive measures against similar occurrences.
The President also tasked the National Orientation Agency with launching a nationwide educational campaign to inform the public about the dangers and environmental risks of collecting fuel from fallen tankers.
“President Tinubu strongly advises all citizens to exercise caution and avoid approaching accident sites, especially those involving fuel-laden vehicles, due to their highly explosive nature,” the statement concluded.