The Federal Government has directed the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority to conduct a thorough investigation into the tanker explosion that claimed over 100 lives in Jigawa State.
The incident occurred in Majiya Town, Taura Local Government Area.
According to The PUNCH, the directive was issued on Wednesday by the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, following the tragic event that took place late Tuesday night.
According to Shi’isu Adam, spokesperson for the Jigawa State Police, the explosion happened around 11:30 p.m. when a petrol tanker, en route from Kano to Nguru Town in Yobe State, lost control near Khadija University.
The tanker subsequently exploded after the driver lost control, leading to a fire that killed many people. Reports indicate that several individuals, attempting to collect the spilt fuel, were caught in the explosion.
In a statement released by the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Nneamaka Okafor, Lokpobiri expressed deep regret over the incident and offered condolences to the families of the victims.
“The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic petrol tanker explosion in Majiya Town, Taura Local Government Area, Jigawa State, which resulted in the loss of over 100 lives and left dozens more injured,” the statement said.
“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. Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured, and we wish them a swift and full recovery.”
Lokpobiri also instructed the NMDPRA to begin a detailed investigation into the cause of the explosion, pledging that the government would take necessary steps to prevent similar tragedies.
The Minister urged Nigerians to exercise caution around vehicles transporting petroleum products, especially in the event of accidents.
“While we understand the temptation to scavenge, the dangers of attempting to collect spilt fuel cannot be overstated. The tragic loss of lives in this incident serves as a stark reminder of the severe risks involved,” he warned.
Additionally, Lokpobiri called on petroleum transporters to ensure that only qualified and safety-compliant drivers are employed, in line with Federal Road Safety Corps standards.
“The Ministry remains committed to ensuring the safety of Nigerians in all aspects of petroleum product distribution and transport. We will continue to work closely with all relevant stakeholders to enforce stricter safety measures and prevent future occurrences,” the statement concluded.
