The Federal Government has established a high-level committee to investigate the cause of Saturday’s fuel tanker explosion at Dikko Junction, Niger State, which claimed 86 lives and left 55 injured. The tragedy occurred on the Dikko-Maje Minna road in Gurara Local Government Area.
A mass burial was held for 80 victims at the Dikko Primary Health Center premises. Among the committee members are representatives from the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), and the Petroleum Tanker Drivers Association (PTD).
The Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, announced the committee while leading a Federal Government delegation to condole with the Emir of Suleija, HRH Mohammed Awwal, and his subjects. He described the incident as part of a disturbing trend of tanker explosions that have claimed over 265 lives since September 2024.
**Tinubu and Shettima Mourn Victims**
President Bola Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, emphasizing the need for safety awareness around fuel-laden vehicles. He directed the provision of medical care for survivors and mandated the National Orientation Agency to launch a nationwide campaign on the dangers of approaching accident scenes.
Vice President Kashim Shettima also extended condolences to the victims’ families and assured them of the government’s commitment to implementing stricter highway safety measures.
**Stakeholders React**
Former President Muhammadu Buhari lamented Nigerians’ disregard for safety warnings about scooping fuel from accident scenes, calling for better public education. The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) attributed the incident to poor road conditions and urged the government to prioritize road repairs and safety campaigns.
NUPENG President Prince Williams Akporeha called for increased collaboration with safety agencies, emphasizing driver training and public sensitization.
**First Lady Joins Condolences**
The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, expressed grief over the tragedy, extending sympathies to the victims, their families, and the Niger State government.
The Federal Government’s committee is expected to recommend measures to prevent future tanker explosions and improve road safety nationwide.
