Buhari expresses sadness over loss of 70 lives in Niger tanker explosion
Muhammadu Buhari
Abdullateef Fowewe
Former President Muhammadu Buhari, has expressed sadness over the tragic loss of at least 70 lives in a fuel tanker explosion at Dikko Junction along the Abuja-Kaduna highway in Niger State
The devastating incident occurred last Saturday, leaving dozens dead and several others injured.
In a statement released on Sunday by his spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, Buhari extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Niger State, as well as to the families of the victims, describing the event as a grave tragedy and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured.
Buhari voiced disappointment over the continued practice of fuel scooping by members of the public at accident sites, despite repeated warnings from authorities about the dangers of such actions.
“The devastating losses of life characteristically associated with such incidents are heartbreaking,” Buhari quoted lamenting.
The tragic event underscored ongoing concerns about safety practices around petroleum transportation and public awareness of the risks associated with fuel spills.
The former President called for stricter adherence to safety measures and a renewed focus on public education to prevent future occurrences.
The Dikko Junction accident adds to a string of similar tragedies in recent years, raising calls for enhanced road safety regulations and improved infrastructure to mitigate such disasters.
