Emmanuel Ochayi
105 Confirmed Dead in Jigawa Tanker Explosion
Former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed deep sorrow following a tragic incident, where at least 105 people were killed, and 55 others injured. In a statement by his media aide, Garba Shehu, Buhari said, “The oil tanker explosion in Majiya is one of the deadliest accidents we’ve seen in recent years. My heart goes out to the families who lost loved ones, and I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.i
A petrol tanker had exploded in Majiya town, Taura Local Government Area, Jigawa State. The tanker, carrying petrol from Kano to Yobe, lost control and exploded near Khadija University, causing massive destruction late Tuesday night.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelJigawa State Police Public Relations Officer, Shiisu Adam, confirmed the death toll. “As of now, 105 people have lost their lives, and 55 are injured. The numbers may rise as we continue to assess the situation,” Adam said in a telephone interview.
Many of the victims were reportedly attempting to scoop petrol from the tanker when it exploded. The injured have been taken to Ringim General Hospital and Federal Medical Centre Birnin Kudu.
READ ALSO: Tanker Explosion In Jigawa Claims 105 Lives, Leaves 55 Injured
Atiku Express Deep Sorrow over Tanker explosion
Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President, also expressed condolences while calling for improved safety in transporting petroleum products. “This incident is one too many. It’s time we considered rail transport for petrol distribution to reduce these tragic accidents. I urge the federal government to take swift action in this regard,” Atiku said in a statement.
Nigeria Governors’ Forum Urges Caution
The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) joined in mourning the victims, urging Nigerians to exercise caution when dealing with petrol spills. In a statement, Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, emphasized, “Petrol spills are extremely dangerous. We call on all citizens to avoid such risks, and we appeal to the government to enforce stricter safety protocols.”
The Forum also extended condolences to Governor Umar Namadi and the people of Jigawa State. “Our thoughts are with the people of Jigawa at this difficult time,” the statement concluded.
Calls for New Safety Measures
Following the explosion, calls for improved safety protocols in petrol transportation have intensified. Atiku reiterated the need for proper driver training and updated safety measures. “Drivers handling flammable products need better training, and we must review the protocols for transporting petroleum,” he added.
As investigations continue, the government is preparing for the mass burial of the deceased, most of whom were burned beyond recognition. The tragic event has left the community of Majiya in mourning, and calls for improved safety measures remain urgent.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
