By Enyichukwu Enemanna
The Nigerian Government has ordered investigation into the killing of over 100 persons following a tanker explosion in Jigawa, Northwestern region of the country.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, following the tragic incident on Wednesday in Majiya Town, Taura Local Government Area of the state, directed the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to launch a thorough investigation immediately.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Nneamaka Okafor, Lokpobiri extended his heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected by the devastating incident.
It was reported that, following the explosion, locals trooped out in their large numbers to scoop the spilt product, which led to many more fatalities.
The police command in the state said the explosion occurred at around 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday in Majiya Town, when the tanker driver lost control near Khadija University.
The tanker, which left the neighbouring Kano and was heading to Nguru Town in Yobe State, exploded after the driver lost control.
“The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic petrol tanker explosion in Majiya Town, Taura Local Government Area, Jigawa State, which resulted in the loss of over 100 lives and left dozens more injured”, the statement reads in part.
“The Minister has instructed the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority to promptly commence a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.”
While urging Nigerians to avoid approaching vehicles transporting petroleum products that have been involved in accidents or mechanical failures, he called on petroleum transporters to ensure that only certified drivers who comply with safety standards, as stipulated by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) are employed to transport petroleum products.
