The Nigeria Governors’ Forum has expressed profound grief over the devastating loss of 105 lives in the recent petrol tanker explosion in Majia town, Jigawa State, which occurred on Tuesday.
In a statement released by Rafiu Ajakaiye, the Chief Press Secretary to the Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who also serves as the NGF Chairman, the forum extended its deepest sympathies to the government and people of Jigawa State during this tragic time.
The statement read, “The Forum sends its heartfelt condolences to the people and government of Jigawa State on this sad incident, especially to the families that lost their loved ones and to those who sustained injuries in the fire.”
Emphasizing the gravity of the circumstances surrounding the disaster, the NGF expressed concern about the increasing trend of citizens collecting spilled petrol in such accidents.
It urged the public to remain cautious of the dangerous and unpredictable nature of petrol.
“The NGF says the reported circumstances of the incident are worrisome, urging citizens to avoid taking advantage of petrol spills due to the inherent volatility and existential danger,” the statement added.
In light of this, the forum called for enhanced safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future, particularly in the handling of highly combustible materials like petrol, which pose grave risks during accidents and emergencies.
“Our hearts are with His Excellency Governor Umar Namadi, the people of the state, and families involved in the incident. We ask Almighty Allah to grant them solace at this trying time and admit the deceased to al-jannah Firdaus,” the forum concluded, offering prayers and condolences to all affected by the tragedy.
