FRSC Expresses Condolences to Victims of Jigawa Tanker Explosion

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has expressed condolences to the families of the victims and the Jigawa State Government following the tragic tanker explosion.

Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed conveyed his sympathies in a statement issued by the Corps Public Education Officer on Wednesday in Abuja. He extended his thoughts and prayers to the affected families and the residents of Jigawa State.

According to reports from the News Agency of Nigeria, the incident took place in Majia, Jigawa State, resulting in the deaths of 94 individuals who were igniting a fire while attempting to scoop Premium Motor Spirit from the overturned tanker.

Mohammed emphasized the critical need for strict adherence to safety regulations and urged all road users to exercise caution. He advised the public to await the FRSC’s emergency and rescue operatives during such situations and to maintain a safe distance from any overturned tankers.

He explained that the highly flammable substances involved could lead to severe injuries or fatalities. Reports indicated that the fire erupted when villagers rushed to collect fuel from a tanker that had detached from a DAF vehicle after it crashed while trying to avoid a speed bump at high speed.

The Corps Marshal has ordered a thorough investigation into the crash and directed Commanding Officers at various tank farms to ensure that all tankers meet minimum safety standards before transporting flammable materials.

The injured have been taken to Ringim General Hospital, Jahun General Hospital, and Khadija Clinic Majia for urgent medical care. The death toll from the tanker explosion in Majiya, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa, has now risen to 147, according to local authorities. A mass burial has been conducted for the victims.