By Chidi Ugwu
The Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, (oil) Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has expressed profound sorrow over the petrol tanker explosion in Majiya, Jigawa State, which claimed over 100 lives and left many injured.
In a statement signed by Nneamaka Okafor, the Minister’s Special Adviser, Media and Communications, Lokpobiri extended condolences to the victims’ families and directed the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to investigate the incident.
Lokpobiri urged Nigerians to avoid approaching accident-involved petroleum vehicles and emphasized the need for certified drivers to enhance safety standards in petroleum transport.
The statement noted that the Ministry remains committed to enforcing stricter safety measures to prevent future tragedies.
“The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, (Ph.D) has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic petrol tanker explosion that occurred in Majiya town, Taura Local Government Area, Jigawa State, resulting in the loss of over 100 lives and leaving dozens more injured.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the Federal Government, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected by this devastating incident.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured, and we wish them a swift and full recovery.
“The Minister has directed the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to immediately commence a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident.
“The Minister also wishes to admonish Nigerians to desist from approaching vehicles transporting petroleum products that have been involved in accidents or mechanical failures.
“While we understand the temptation to freeload, the dangers of attempting to collect spilled fuel cannot be overstated.
“The tragic loss of lives in this incident serves as a grim reminder of the severe risks involved.In light of this incident, the Ministry urges all petroleum transporters to ensure that only drivers who are certified and fully compliant with safety standards, as stipulated by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), are employed to transport petroleum products.
“The Ministry remains committed to ensuring Nigerians’ safety in all aspects of petroleum product distribution and transport. We will continue working closely with all relevant stakeholders to enforce stricter safety measures and prevent future occurrences” reads the statement in part.
