Senators from northern Nigeria have expressed deep sorrow over the tragic tanker explosion that claimed dozens of lives in Niger State earlier this week.
The incident occurred on Tuesday in the Essa community, along the Agaie–Bida road in Katcha Local Government Area, when a petrol-laden tanker overturned and exploded. According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), at least 39 people were killed and more than 60 others sustained varying degrees of burns and injuries.
In a statement on Thursday, the Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum (NSF), Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adua, condoled with the government and people of Niger State, describing the tragedy as “devastating.”
“We are deeply saddened by this incident and pray for the repose of the departed souls. May Allah grant them Jannatul Firdaus and comfort their families during this difficult time,” Yar’adua said.
The NSF urged the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to intensify its efforts in enforcing road safety standards and ensuring that all tankers and heavy-duty vehicles are roadworthy to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The Forum also called for stricter enforcement of safety protocols and regular inspections of vehicles transporting hazardous materials.
Similarly, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) expressed its condolences to the families of the victims and the government of Niger State.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, the NGF described the explosion as “a heartbreaking tragedy” and lauded emergency responders for their swift action and support to the injured.
“This incident is another sad reminder of the urgent need for greater attention to safety and regulation in the storage and transportation of combustible materials across the country,” the statement read.
Both the senators and governors prayed for the repose of the victims’ souls and for strength and comfort for their grieving families.
