By Our Reporter
The death toll from the Jigawa tanker explosion has risen to 153, this was as 140 of the victims received mass burial on Wednesday.
Police spokesman in Jigawa State, Lawal Adam, made the confirmation, noting that old 100 people were hospitalized at various facilities.
Daily Review Online reports that the mass burial was held in Majiya town, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State on Wednesday.
The explosion happened around midnight on Tuesday when the driver of a tanker, traveling from Kano to Nguru in Yobe State, lost control near Khadija University in Majiya. According to police, the disaster was triggered when residents rushed to collect spilled petrol after the tanker overturned.
“The residents were scooping fuel when the explosion occurred, resulting in a massive fire that claimed 94 lives instantly,” stated DSP Lawan Adam, Police Public Relations Officer for Jigawa State. “Another 50 people were severely injured and taken to Ringim and Hadejia General Hospitals for treatment.”
DSP Adam described the event as a “horrific tragedy,” stressing the dangers of collecting fuel from accident scenes.
In response, the Federal Government has directed the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority to investigate the incident. Minister of Petroleum Resources Heineken Lokpobiri expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, which has claimed over 100 lives.
“The Minister extends heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this devastating incident and wishes the injured a swift recovery,” a statement read. Lokpobiri urged Nigerians to avoid approaching vehicles involved in accidents and called for certified drivers to be employed for transporting petroleum products.
Tinubu Mourns
President Bola Tinubu has called for a review of fuel transportation safety protocols following the disaster. In a statement on Wednesday, Vice President Kashim Shettima conveyed the President’s condolences to the families affected, emphasizing the government’s commitment to assist those impacted by the tragedy.
“This incident has deeply shaken us,” Shettima said. “The Federal Government stands with the people of Jigawa, mobilizing resources to support the injured and assist affected families.” He also ordered the immediate deployment of National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) personnel to the area.
Shettima highlighted the importance of safety measures and public awareness to prevent future incidents, acknowledging the vital role of first responders and medical personnel in the aftermath. He emphasized that road safety is crucial for protecting citizens and called for better coordination between federal, state, and local governments to achieve road safety objectives.