Niger State Tanker Explosion: Coalition of northern groups demand immediate action
From Our Reporter
The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), Niger chapter has demanded immediate action from the federal government to address the root causes of the tanker explosion that occurred in Niger State, claiming the lives of 98 people and injuring 69.
In a press statement, Abdullahi Musa Erena, Coordinator of CNG, Niger state Chapter, in Minna on Monday, expressed deep sadness and shock over the devastating tanker explosion that occurred along Dikko Junction.
He described the tragedy as “a calamity fueled by poverty and inflation.
Erena noted that eyewitness accounts indicated that the victims were attempting to salvage fuel from the fallen tanker when the explosion occurred.
“This heart-wrenching scene is a stark reflection of the desperation and poverty that have become all too familiar in our society.
“The fact that individuals felt compelled to risk their lives for a chance to collect fuel is a scathing indictment of our nation’s failure to provide for its citizens,” he said.
He attributed the tragedy to the rising cost of fuel exacerbated by inflation and poverty, which has created an environment in which people are forced to make impossible choices.
According to him, this tragedy was an indication that our economic policies have failed to address the needs of our most vulnerable citizens.
Erena, however, commended the swift response of Niger government under the leadership of Umar Bago, to the tragedy.
He said the government’s efforts to provide emergency services and support to the victims were commendable.
He said the group demanded immediate action from the federal government to address the root causes of the tragedy.
Erena called for a comprehenssive action to address poverty, investment in sustainable energy solutions, improved road infrastructure, and enhanced emergency response systems.
“We offer our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and pray for the speedy recovery of those injured.
“May this tragedy serve as a wake-up call for our leaders to take responsibility for the welfare of our citizens,” he added.
Recalled that the tanker explosion occurred on Saturday morning at about 9 am along Dikko-Maje road opposite Baddegi fuelling station in Gurara local government area.
The incident happened when a tanker loaded with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) crashed, and an attempt was made to transfer its contents to another tanker.
In the process, the PMS came into contact with a generator used to power the transfer process, triggering an explosion that claimed many injured many, and destroyed properties worth millions of naira.
