In the wake of the disastrous tanker explosion in Jigawa State on Wednesday, that claimed over 100 lives, Vice President Kashim Shettima has announced immediate federal government intervention and called for a comprehensive review of fuel transportation safety protocols across Nigeria.
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The Vice President on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed particular sorrow for the families who lost loved ones in the tragic incident and prayed that Almighty Allah grants them the fortitude to bear the loss.
“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.”
NEMA Response
Vice President Shettima has in the meantime, directed the immediate deployment of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) personnel and resources to Jigawa State.
“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,” he added.
Commendation
The Vice President also commended first responders and medical personnel for their tireless efforts, stating their dedication “exemplifies the best of our nation’s spirit.”
He 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.
VP Shettima also 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.
FRSC
Meanwhile, in a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, Nigerian Leader restated his directive to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to strengthen night travel measures, such as increased patrols, stricter enforcement of safety regulations, and other highway safety mechanisms.
He warned that those found responsible for breaches of safety standards will be held accountable while reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring such incidents do not recur.
High-Level Delegation To Jigawa
President Tinubu also directed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, to lead a Federal Government delegation to Jigawa State to visit the scene of the Tuesday night inferno, assess the situation and visit injured persons in the hospital.
The government delegation will comprise the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; Minister of Transportation, Senator Saidu Alkali; Corps Marshall of the Federal Roads Safety Commission (FRSC), Mr Shehu Mohammed; and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North West), Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai.
President Tinubu further directed that emergency aid, including medical supplies, food, and shelter, be extended to the 50 victims receiving treatment and others affected by the fire.
Extending his deepest condolences to the families of the victims of the fire disaster, the President expressed his heartfelt prayers and support to the government and people of Jigawa State during this time of tragic loss and grief.
He prays for divine comfort for the bereaved families and the peaceful repose for the souls of the departed.
The tragedy, which occurred in Majiya town in Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State, has thrown the entire nation in grief.
At least 105 people have been confirmed dead as at Wednesday evening following a petrol tanker explosion.
PIAK
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