President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has instructed the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to launch a nationwide educational campaign aimed at increasing public awareness regarding the significant risks and environmental hazards associated with scooping fuel from fallen petrol tankers.
The directive was included in a statement released by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, regarding the tanker explosion incident that resulted in the deaths of over 80 individuals in Niger State.
The President emphasized the tragic and preventable nature of the incident, noting that many victims were individuals collecting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from the overturned tanker.
President Tinubu expressed profound sorrow over the fuel tanker explosion, extending his condolences to the affected families and to the government and people of Niger State.
The President has issued directives for the provision of comprehensive medical care to those injured and has instructed security and road safety authorities to implement measures aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
President Tinubu advised citizens to remain vigilant and steer clear of accident scenes, particularly those involving fuel-laden vehicles, given their potential for explosion.
An explosion took place on Saturday at Dikko Junction, Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State, resulting in a significant human toll with many individuals suffering severe burns and becoming unrecognizable.
A tanker carrying Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) reportedly exploded when several residents approached to collect its contents following an accident.
Reports indicate that individuals suffered fatal burns, while several others experienced varying degrees of burn injuries.
The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) has reported that the number of fatalities from the incident has reached 86.