Dare Babalola
The Federal Government is deeply saddened by the tragic petrol tanker explosion in Essa, Niger State, that claimed many lives and injured several others.
The FG expressed its sadness in a statement signed on Wednesday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
Idris wrote, “We join the Government and people of Niger State in mourning this painful loss. This heartbreaking incident has once again brought to the fore the devastating human and material consequences of fuel tanker accidents in our communities.
“The Federal Government is saddened that, despite sustained public sensitization and repeated warnings about the dangers of scooping fuel from fallen tankers, some citizens still take such life-threatening risks.”
The minister maintained that every Nigerian life is precious, adding that “avoidable tragedies serve as a painful reminder of the need for greater vigilance and adherence to safety instructions in times of emergency”.
The government commended “the swift response of the Niger State Government, security agencies, and emergency responders who promptly mobilized to contain the fire, rescue survivors, and provide support to affected families”.
“The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has also been directed to complement ongoing efforts by the State Government in providing relief and medical assistance to victims and their families,” the statement added.
Idris noted that the FG also directed the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to sustain and intensify nationwide public awareness campaigns on safety measures, particularly in rural and high-risk communities, to prevent the recurrence of such tragedies.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire people of Niger State in this moment of grief. May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may God grant their loved ones the strength to bear this painful loss,” the minister concluded.
