NUPENG asks FG to fix bad roads after tanker explosion in Niger

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has condoled with the families affected by the recent tanker explosion in Niger state.

In a statement on Sunday, jointly signed by Williams Akporeha, the union’s president, and Olawale Afolabi, general secretary, NUPENG asked the federal government to repair bad roads across the country to prevent such accidents.

At least 50 people reportedly died in a petrol tanker explosion that occurred on Saturday, around Dikko junction in Gurara local government area.

“The leadership and members of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and communities affected by the tragic petroleum truck accident at Dikko Junction, Gurara Local Government, Niger State, on Saturday 18th, January 2025,” the union said.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of lives, the destruction of properties, and the injuries sustained by many in this devastating incident.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their loved ones during this traumatic and challenging time.

“The Union takes this opportunity to urgently appeal to the Federal government to repair bad roads to prevent such incidents and to intensify efforts in sensitizing the public about the dangers of scooping fuel from accidental situations of petroleum trucks on highways.

“As a responsible organization, NUPENG collaborates annually with relevant agencies, including the Federal Road Safety Corps, the Police, and State Traffic Management agencies, to train our drivers on road safety.

“We stand in solidarity with the affected families and the entire Dikko community in Niger State. We commend the emergency responders who bravely extinguished the fire and rescued many injured victims.”

NUPENG reaffirmed its commitment to training members on safe driving practices and acknowledged the bravery of emergency responders in extinguishing the fire and rescuing victims.

The union further asked the authorities to support affected families and implement measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.