Reps minority caucus: Legislative intervention required to address tanker explosions

The minority caucus in the house of representatives has called for a legislative intervention to address the frequent petrol tanker accidents in the country.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the caucus expressed condolences to the families of victims of the recent petrol tanker explosion in Niger State.

At least 98 people died, and 69 others were injured in the explosion, which occurred in Gurara LGA of the north-central state. The victims were reportedly scooping petrol from the fallen tanker when the explosion occurred.

The lawmakers described the incident as “extremely sad and tearfully heartbroken.”

“Following the tragic and horrific deaths of about 90 people and injuries to many others from the fire caused by the fuel tanker explosion, the caucus commiserates with the families of the victims and prays for the swift recovery of those wounded,” the statement reads.

“As some citizens paid the ultimate price, many others sustained varying degrees of injuries, and numerous properties were destroyed due to the negligence of the tanker driver.

“This heart-wrenching incident is shocking, saddening, and painful, especially in light of the frequency of tanker explosions across the country, which have damaging psychological effects on our people, the environment, and the economy.”

The caucus called for appropriate punitive measures against those who violate transportation safety regulations.

“We call for a thorough investigation and punishment of all those found culpable, while also urging for a legislative solution to address the recurring petrol tanker accidents in Nigeria, in order to prevent future occurrences,” the statement added.

The lawmakers also urged the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other relevant agencies to enhance the management of tanker, truck, and other vehicle traffic on the highways.

The statement was jointly signed by Kingsley Chinda, the minority leader of the House; Aliyu Madaki, deputy minority leader; Ali Isa, minority whip; and George Ozodinobi, deputy minority whip.