Former President Muhammadu Buhari and President Bola Tinubu have expressed deep sorrow over the tragic oil tanker explosion in Majiya, Jigawa State, which claimed the lives of over 105 people and left several others injured.
Buhari, through his media aide, Garba Shehu, described the accident as the deadliest of such tragedies witnessed in the country’s recent history. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Jigawa State, praying for the quick recovery of the injured and the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed.
President Tinubu also sent a high-level delegation to Jigawa State, led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume. The delegation includes the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar; the Minister of Transportation, Saidu Alkali; the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Commission, Mr Shehu Mohammed; and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North West), Abdullahi Yakasai. Tinubu directed that emergency aid, including medical supplies, food, and shelter, be provided to the affected individuals.
The tanker, which was transporting petrol from Kano to Yobe, overturned near Khadija University, causing fuel to spill into a drainage system. As villagers attempted to scoop the fuel, a fire ignited, leading to a massive explosion that engulfed the area. The blast claimed several lives on the spot, with over 55 individuals sustaining injuries and being rushed to nearby hospitals.
Tinubu reassured the nation that the Federal Government, in collaboration with the states, is committed to a swift and comprehensive review of fuel transportation safety protocols nationwide. He also directed the Federal Road Safety Corps to strengthen night travel measures and ensure stricter enforcement of safety regulations.
