Jigawa Tanker Explosion: We Are Mobilizing Resources To Support Victims – VP Shettima

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the human carnage recorded in the fuel tanker explosion in Jigawa state on Tuesday night.

This is even as he called for a drastic review of measures for the transportation of fuel and other petroleum products  across the country.

The Source reports that late Tuesday night October 15, a tanker laden with fuel exploded in Majiya town, Taura local Council, Jigawa claiming about 90 lives, with  over 50 persons severely injured.

The incident was said to have occurred at about 11.45 pm and lasted till the early hours of Wednesday morning October 16.

Jigawa State Police Command spokesperson, Shi’isu Adam, informed that the driver of the ill-fated tanker was heading for Nguru in Yobe State from Kano, the commercial nerve centre of the Northern region.

According to him, the reason for the huge casualty figure was due to people amassing around the scene of the tanker accident.

” People gathered around the accident scene, that was the reason for the mass casualty.

“We are worried that inspite of police warnings for people to steer clear of accident scenes involving fuel tankers ,they still engage in such acts” Adam stated .

In a statement on Wednesday October 16, the Vice President, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, extended his condolences to the families of the dead, and  all other victims of the unfortunate incident.

” My heart aches for those who have had their families torn apart by this disaster.

“This devastating incident has shaken us all to the core. The Federal Government  stands with the people of Jigawa.

“We are mobilizing all necessary resources to support the injured and assist the families affected by this calamity.

“As we contend with this tragedy, let us also reflect on the importance of safety measures and public awareness to prevent such incidents in the future. Every life is precious and we must do all we can to protect our citizens” Shettima noted.

While Commending all those who are involved in the rescue operations for their commitment and tireless efforts,he directed the immediate deployment of officials of the National Emergency Management Agency NEMA to Jigawa state to coordinate  rescue and relief efforts.