Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged a review of Nigeria’s petroleum product transportation protocol.
In a statement shared on his X account on Wednesday, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) emphasized the need for the country to adopt rail transport for moving flammable products, such as petrol and diesel, across Nigeria.
He also expressed his condolences to the victims of the tanker explosion in Majiya town, located in the Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
Atiku said, “The incident in Jigawa is one too many involving tragic petrol tanker explosions in the country.
“It is about time we explored other means, like rail, for transporting petroleum products around the country.
“It is also pertinent to train drivers involved in the transportation of flammable products and review the protocol for the transportation of petroleum products and other inflammable products.
“I wish to share my grief with the people and government of Jigawa State and ask for an expeditious rescue and control operation. No resource should be spared in treating the injured.
“I also sympathize with families that have lost dear ones to this tragic incident and pray that they be comforted and that the deceased find eternal rest.”
Over 140 victims of the petrol tanker explosion were laid to rest on Wednesday, while around 90 others are receiving treatment in various hospitals across the state, suffering from severe injuries.
The explosion occurred just after midnight on Tuesday when the tanker, en route from Kano to Nguru in Yobe State, lost control near Khadija University in Majiya.
According to the police, the tragedy was triggered when local residents rushed to collect the spilt petrol after the tanker overturned, leading to the deadly explosion.