By Emmanuel Kwada
A devastating petrol tanker explosion has rocked Niger State, leaving over 70 people dead and many more injured. The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, is deeply saddened by the tragic incident, which occurred on Saturday morning along the Dikko-Maje road, opposite the Badeggi filling station, Suleja Local Government Area of Niger State.
The Minister’s condolences go out to the Government, families of the victims, and the people of Niger State, as she prays for the speedy recovery of those injured and for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed.
The explosion happened when a petrol tanker overturned and spilled fuel, prompting people to gather and scoop the fuel, unaware of the imminent danger. The subsequent explosion and fire engulfed those gathered, including rescue efforts, resulting in a significant loss of life and property. The Minister commends the swift efforts of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Suleja Local Government officials, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and the volunteers in evacuating the victims and responding to the emergency.
The tragic incident, which occurred on Saturday morning along the Dikko-Maje road, opposite the Badeggi filling station, Suleja
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has also expressed profound condolences to the victims of the tragic tanker explosion. The company’s gesture is a testament to the outpouring of support and solidarity from various stakeholders in the wake of this tragedy. The Minister urges the general public to exercise caution and vigilance in situations involving hazardous materials, such as petroleum products. The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs will continue to work closely with relevant authorities and stakeholders to provide support to those affected by the tragedy.
(TGnews)
