LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT REFUNDS 145 FORMER SUBSCRIBERS OF EGAN HOUSING ESTATE
- NSIB probes accident
Death toll in the Jigawa tanker explosion has risen to 157 as at yesterday, with many still hospitalised.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has also launched investigation into the accident which happened at Majia town, Taura Local Government Area of the state.
A statement by the NSIB Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, said the bureau is ‘aware of the tragic petrol tanker explosion’.
According to Mrs. Oladeji, the NSIB has deployed a team of experts to investigate the accident, in line with its mandate to investigate accidents across all transportation sectors.
The team will assess the circumstances surrounding the crash and the explosion to identify causal factors and provide safety recommendations aimed at preventing future occurrences.
The statement reads: “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this devastating accident. The NSIB is committed to uncovering the cause of the explosion and ensuring that safety lessons are learned.
“Further updates on the investigation would be communicated as the NSIB team gathers and analyses evidence from the scene.”
It reminded citizens of the grave danger inherent in scooping fuel from tanker accidents, and urged them to avoid such scenes.
Ganduje, ACF mourn
National Chairman of All Progressive Congress (APC) Abudullahi Ganduje has commiserate with the people and government of Jigawa State
Ganduje said: “I’m deeply saddened to hear about the devastating tanker explosion. This tragedy is a sobering reminder of the fragility of life, and the importance of prioritising safety in our daily lives. I pray that Almighty Allah grants the deceased eternal rest and comfort their loved ones during this difficult time.”
The APC chief also emphasised that the party stands united with the government and people of Jigawa State. We understand the gravity of this incident and the impact it has on the community. As a party, we are committed to supporting relief efforts and ensuring that those affected receive the necessary assistance. We urge all Nigerians to join us in praying for the victims and their families,” he added.
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), in a statement personally signed by Chairman of its Board of Trustees, Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, also extended condolences to the bereaved families.
Dalhatu also wished those hospitalized quick recovery, and urged Nigerians to be safety conscious.
Also, a statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba, prayed for the quick recovery of the injured.
It commended the swift response of the Federal and Jigawa state governments, and urged public emergency agencies, humanitarian organisations, and first responders to intensify efforts in providing assistance to the victims, especially in terms of food, shelter, and medical aid.
Ahmadu Bello Foundation seeks probe
The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation called for a thorough investigation of the accident, saying such explosions have become too frequent across the country.
It also called for enhanced safety measures to prevent or mitigate the impact of such disasters.
The statement by the Foundation’s Director-General, Engr Abubakar Gambo-Umar, also called for government’s investment in emergency response, infrastructure and capacity building.
It reads: “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, people of Majiya, and the government and people of Jigawa State. Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this devastating incident.
“Regrettably, such accidents have become all too frequent across our country, claiming countless lives and causing untold hardship. This trend underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures to prevent or mitigate the impact of such disasters.
“We call on the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion; provide immediate assistance and support to the affected families; strengthen safety regulations and enforcement across the petroleum industry; and invest in emergency response infrastructure and capacity building…”
IG Egbetokun promises safety advocacies
The Inspector-General of Police (IG), Kayode Egbetokun, promised robust sensitisation programmess on the hazardous effects of oil scooping and other similar activities to forestall a recurrence.
He also urged motorists and road users to exercise caution and adhere to laid down safety guidelines in their daily conduct.
Egbetokun, in a statement, said: “While praying for the souls of the departed ones, we reassure the general public of robust sensitisation programmes on the hazardous effects of oil scooping and other similar activities. We also urge motorists and road users to always exercise caution and adhere to laid down safety guidelines in their daily conduct.”