– Calls for urgent inquiry, safety measures
Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Former presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over the rising frequency of petrol tanker explosions across Nigeria, following another tragic incident in Enugu that claimed 18 lives just a week after a similar explosion in Niger State killed nearly 100 people.
In a statement, Obi described the recurring accidents as alarming, with at least three reported cases in the month of January 2025 alone, leading to significant loss of lives and property.
He emphasized the urgent need to prioritize safety by fixing Nigeria’s deteriorating roads, enforcing strict road safety measures, and educating citizens on protocols around accident scenes.
“My heart goes out to the families who have lost loved ones and the people of Enugu State over this terrible incident. May God grant eternal rest to the departed and quick healing to the injured,” Obi said.
He also urged relevant authorities to take immediate action to prevent further tragedies, stressing that the safety and security of lives and property must remain paramount.
Similarly, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, said the frequent petrol tanker explosion in the country has reached an emergency level and urged the government to establish an inquiry into the menace.
“Oh dear, not again! My thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of all the victims. May their souls find eternal rest. The incidents of tragic tanker explosions have reached emergency levels. It is time for the government to establish an inquiry into this issue,” Atiku tweeted on X.
