By Charles Emmanuel
In a heartfelt reaction to the deadly fuel tanker explosion in Majiya town, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State, Atiku Abubakar, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in 2023, has urged the Nigerian government to shift towards transporting fuel via railways. This recommendation comes in response to the tragic event that claimed over 100 lives and left dozens injured.
Atiku expressed his sorrow on the platform X, highlighting the frequent occurrence of fuel-related accidents in Nigeria. He lamented: “I am saddened by reports of the death of scores of people in a petrol tanker explosion in Majiya town in Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State.” His comments shed light on the dangerous and often deadly nature of fuel transportation by road in the country.
Recurring Tragedies Demand New Approaches
Atiku’s concerns resonate deeply with many Nigerians. Fuel tanker accidents have become a common tragedy in the country, with weak traffic regulations and economic pressures contributing to the frequency of such incidents. In Jigawa, the fuel tanker reportedly overturned, and in the chaos of an attempted fuel collection by locals, an explosion occurred, causing widespread fatalities and injuries. A state emergency official confirmed that over 100 people died, and more than 50 suffered injuries, some in critical condition.
Reflecting on the grim pattern of accidents like these, Atiku asserted: “The incident in Jigawa is one too many involving tragic petrol tanker explosions in the country.” His solution? It’s time for Nigeria to rethink how it transports hazardous products, particularly fuel. “It is about time we explored other means, like rail, for transporting petroleum products around the country,” he added.
Atiku Calls for Enhanced Safety Protocols
Nigeria’s reliance on roads for transporting petroleum products poses multiple risks, including accidents, fuel pilfering, and environmental hazards. The frequent tanker explosions further underline the need for safer and more sustainable transportation solutions. For Atiku, rail transport presents an alternative that would not only reduce road congestion but also mitigate the chances of deadly explosions.
Atiku’s suggestion to embrace rail transport is particularly significant, given that rail infrastructure has historically played a limited role in Nigeria’s energy logistics. The country’s existing railway system has yet to be fully modernized and expanded to support widespread use, especially for the distribution of dangerous goods like petroleum. However, the tragic loss of life in Jigawa has reignited the debate over improving safety measures.
Atiku emphasized the need for improved safety measures across Nigeria’s transportation sector. This includes not just the use of alternative transportation methods but also enhanced training for those responsible for handling flammable materials. He stated: “It is also pertinent to train drivers involved in the transportation of flammable products and review the protocol for the transportation of petroleum products and other inflammable products.”
With a population growing more dependent on petroleum products, incidents like the Jigawa explosion expose the weaknesses in both regulatory enforcement and the available training for drivers tasked with transporting hazardous materials.
Sympathy and Support for Victims
In his concluding message, Atiku expressed solidarity with the victims and their families, saying, “I wish to share my grief with the people and government of Jigawa State and ask for an expeditious rescue and control operation. No resource should be spared in treating the injured.” He also conveyed his sympathy to the bereaved families, offering prayers for comfort and eternal rest for the deceased.
While Atiku’s call for fuel transportation by rail represents a step toward addressing the root cause of frequent accidents, the government’s response will be crucial. A shift to rail-based fuel transportation would require significant investments in infrastructure and regulatory changes, but the potential to save lives and prevent future disasters makes this suggestion a timely and pressing one.
