President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to launch a nationwide campaign to raise public awareness about the dangers and environmental risks of scooping fuel from fallen tankers.
This directive was issued following a tanker explosion in Niger State that claimed the lives of over 80 people. A statement from the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the incident.
President Tinubu condemned the preventable nature of the tragedy, highlighting that many victims were collecting fuel from the overturned tanker when the explosion occurred. He expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to the families of the victims, as well as the government and people of Niger State.
The President has ordered medical assistance for the injured and directed security and road safety agencies to implement measures to prevent future occurrences.
He also urged citizens to remain alert and avoid accident scenes, especially those involving fuel tankers, due to the high risk of explosions.
The explosion occurred on Saturday at Dikko Junction, Gurara Local Government Area, Niger State, after residents approached a fallen tanker to collect fuel. Many victims suffered severe burns, and the toll has now reached 86, according to the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA).
