Obi, Atiku Lament Frequent Petrol Tanker Explosions in Nigeria

Both statesmen raised the worry following another tragic incident in Enugu that claimed 18 lives just a week after a similar explosion in Niger State killed nearly 100 people.

In a statement, Mr Obi described the recurring accidents as alarming, with at least three reported cases in the month of January 2025 alone, leading to significant loss of lives and property.

He emphasized the urgent need to prioritize safety by fixing Nigeria’s deteriorating roads, enforcing strict road safety measures, and educating citizens on protocols around accident scenes.

“My heart goes out to the families who have lost loved ones and the people of Enugu State over this terrible incident. May God grant eternal rest to the departed and quick healing to the injured,” Mr Obi said.

He also urged relevant authorities to take immediate action to prevent further tragedies, stressing that the safety and security of lives and property must remain paramount.

Similarly, former Vice President Atiku said the frequent petrol tanker explosions in the country have reached an emergency level and urged the government to establish an inquiry into the menace.

“Oh dear, not again! My thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of all the victims. May their souls find eternal rest. The incidents of tragic tanker explosions have reached emergency levels. It is time for the government to establish an inquiry into this issue,” Mr Atiku tweeted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Accidents involving fuel tanker trucks have become common in Nigeria, which authorities blame on bad roads and reckless driving, often with dozens of fatalities.

According to Mr Olusegun Ogungbemide, spokesperson of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), 10 people were rescued with different degrees of injuries and another three were unharmed, at the Enugu incident.

“Unfortunately, the remaining 18 victims were burnt beyond recognition,” said Mr Ogungbemide.