President Bola Tinubu and immediate past President Muhammadu Buhari have expressed deep sorrow over the fuel tanker explosion, which caused the death of over 70 people, with many also injured.
In a separate statements, Tinubu and Buhari deplored the continued act of scooping fuel from tankers, despite several warnings by the authorities.
Bayo Unanuga, spokesman to President Tinubu, said that the devastating explosion, which occurred on Saturday at Dikko Junction, Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State, caused an immense human toll.
President Tinubu was quoted as expressing his condolences to the families affected, as well as to the government and people of Niger State.
He underscored the tragic and preventable nature of the incident, as many victims were those scooping Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from the overturned tanker.
Tinu directed the provision of comprehensive medical care to the injured and instructed security and road safety authorities to implement measures to avert similar incidents.
He strongly advised all citizens to exercise caution and avoid approaching accident sites, especially those involving fuel-laden vehicles, due to their highly explosive nature.
The President also mandated the National Orientation Agency to initiate a nationwide educational campaign.
“This campaign will raise public awareness about the severe risks and environmental dangers of scooping fuel from fallen tankers.
Spokesman to Buhari while in power, Malam Garba Shehu quoted the former President as having expressed disappointment that the practice of scooping up fuel is becoming more common in spite of warnings from the authorities and the devastating losses of life that had characteristically attended such incidents.
Buhari condoled the families of the victims and government of Niger state, wishing speedy recovery to those injured.
