The Federal Road Safety Corps, (FRSC) has commiserated with the families of the victims, people, as well the Government of Jigawa State affected by the unfortunate tanker explosion.
.By Ibironke Ariyo
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has expressed its condolences to the families of the victims, the people and the government of Jigawa State affected by the unfortunate tanker explosion.
FRSC Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, said this in a statement issued by the office of the Corps Public Education Officer in Abuja on Wednesday.
Mohammed, who condoled with the people of Jigawa State, said his thoughts and prayers were with the affected families and people of the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the unfortunate incident occurred at Majia in Jigawa State where 94 people were burnt alive while removing Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from an overturned tanker.
The FRSC boss explained that this unfortunate incident has highlighted the importance of always adhering to safety regulations.
He, however, appealed to all road users to exercise caution and always wait for the FRSC emergency and rescue teams to respond to any such emergency.
He also said it was the responsibility of the Corps to warn the public that whenever such incidents occur, they should do everything possible to stay away from the tanker.
This was because the product contained highly flammable ingredients and could cause serious injury or even death.
“You will recall that according to information available, the fire started when residents rushed to this road to collect fuel from the tanker of a DAF vehicle about an hour after the accident.
“The only accident that did not result in any fatalities as the driver and rider survived unhurt occurred when the DAF tanker loaded with Premium Motor Spirit was attempting to avoid a pothole at high speed.
“The impact resulting from the driver’s action at high speed separated the tanker from the body of the tractor-trailer,” he said.
The Corps Marshal ordered further investigation into the accident and also issued immediate instructions to the commanders of the various tank parks to expedite action.
He said this was to ensure that all tankers meet minimum safety standards before they are allowed to transport flammable materials.
The FRSC boss said the injured victims were taken to Ringim General Hospital, Jahun General Hospital and Khadija Majia Clinic for emergency medical treatment.
NAN reports that the death toll from an oil tanker explosion in Majiya town in Jigawa’s Taura Local Government Area on Wednesday has risen to 147, according to authorities.
The Taura LGA Chairman, Shu’aibu Hambali, confirmed the latest casualty figures on Wednesday evening while speaking live on local radio station, Arewa Radio.
Meanwhile, mass funerals were held for the 147 victims who died while removing fuel from the wrecked tanker.
