Niger State Governor Pays Condolence Visit to Tanker Explosion Victims in Essa, criticized reckless behavior
By Yahaya zakka Minna
Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago extended his condolences to the community of Essa in Katcha Local Government Area following a tragic tanker explosion that resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries.
During his visit to the site for an on-the-spot assessment, Governor Bago addressed community leaders and residents, expressing his heartfelt sympathies for those who lost loved ones and wishing a swift recovery to the injured receiving treatment in various facilities in Bida and Abuja.
The governor criticized the reckless behavior of individuals who attempted to salvage fuel from the overturned tanker, labeling it as theft and emphasizing that such actions would not be tolerated. “We came here to commiserate and to address the conscience of the community.
The loss of life is tragic, and instead of aiding those in need, people resorted to scooping fuel, which must be condemned,” he asserted.
While acknowledging the poor condition of local roads, Governor Bago urged residents to avoid engaging in illegal activities and to focus on their agricultural contributions to the community. In a gesture of support, he announced a donation of N1 million to each family of the deceased victims and N500,000 to each person injured in the incident.
Governor Bago also revealed that Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group, has pledged to repair the Mokwa-Lambata road, with work set to begin soon.
Additionally, the state government plans to establish a new primary healthcare center in Essa to better serve community health needs.
Saidu Musa Abdullahi, the member representing the Bida/Gbako/Katcha federal constituency, commended the governor’s swift action in response to the disaster, urging residents to refrain from dangerous actions that could lead to further loss of lives.
Zubairu Mohammed Essa, Chairman of Katcha Local Government Council, praised the assistance provided by the state government, particularly the free medical services extended to disaster victims, expressing gratitude on behalf of the community.
Community leaders, including Muhammad Abdullahi Sanda, Village Head of Badeggi, and Muhammad Daudu, District Head of Essa, expressed their appreciation for the governor’s ongoing support and assured him of their commitment to community development.
