The vice president, Kashim Shettima on behalf of President Bola Tinubu has expressed sorrow for the families who lost loved ones in Jigawa petrol tanker explosion victims and prayed that Almighty Allah grants them the fortitude to bear the loss.
This is in the wake of a catastrophic tanker explosion in Jigawa State that claimed over 100 lives.
In a condolence message on Wednesday, Shettima said ,”My heart aches for those who have had their families torn apart by this disaster.”
“This devastating incident has shaken us all to our core. The Federal Government stands with the people of Jigawa.
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“We are mobilising all necessary resources to support the injured and assist the families affected by this calamity,” he said.
A statement by the vice president’s spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, noted that the tragedy, which occurred in Majiya has thrown the entire nation in grief.
In response, Vice President Shettima has directed the immediate deployment of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) personnel and resources to Jigawa State.
He also announced immediate federal government intervention and called for a comprehensive review of fuel transportation safety protocols across Nigeria.
“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,” Shettima emphasised.
“Every life is precious, and we must do all we can to protect our citizens.”
Shettima also commended first responders and medical personnel for their tireless efforts, stating their dedication “exemplifies the best of our nation’s spirit.”
The vice president had inaugurated the National Road Safety Advisory Council (NaRSAC) last Friday with a charge on members to align with global best practices in reducing traffic crashes.
He tasked the council to set National Road Safety Strategy targets and ensure effective coordination between federal, state, and local governments to achieve shared road safety objectives.
Shettima emphasised the critical nature of road safety, stating, “Road safety is not merely a matter of policy but a critical part of the lifeline that connects the people of this nation.”
Former president, Mohammadu Buhari has conveyed his sorrow over the oil tanker explosion, describing the mishap as the deadliest of such tragedies witnessed in the country’s recent experience.
“The oil tanker mishap at Majiya, Jigawa State is utterly painful. My thoughts and prayers are with all those who lost near and dear ones. I pray that the injured recover quickly.”
The former president also expressed his heartfelt condolences to the government and the people of Jigawa state.
