President Bola Tinubu has directed a high-level Federal Government delegation, led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, to Jigawa State following a devastating tanker fire that claimed over 100 lives in Majia town on Tuesday night.
The delegation includes the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; the Minister of Transportation, Senator Saidu Alkali; the Corps Marshall of the Federal Roads Safety Commission (FRSC), Mr. Shehu Mohammed; and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North West), Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai.
The team’s mission is to assess the situation at the scene of the incident and visit those injured who are receiving treatment in hospitals.
In a statement issued by Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy), Bayo Onanuga, the President expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident and extended his heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families.
“President Tinubu, with a heavy heart, joins the Vice President in extending his deepest condolences to the families of the victims of this devastating incident,” Onanuga said.
The President has also directed that emergency aid, including medical supplies, food, and shelter, be provided to the 50 victims currently receiving treatment and to others affected by the fire.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the people of Jigawa during this time of loss and grief.
“President Tinubu expresses his heartfelt prayers and support to the government and people of Jigawa during this time of tragic loss and grief. He prays for divine comfort for the bereaved families and the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed,” the statement added.
Addressing safety concerns, President Tinubu reiterated his directive for a comprehensive review of fuel transportation safety protocols across the country. He assured Nigerians that the Federal Government, in collaboration with state authorities, is dedicated to improving safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
“He restates his directive to the Federal Roads Safety Corps (FRSC) to strengthen night travel measures, such as increased patrols, stricter enforcement of safety regulations, and other highway safety mechanisms,” Onanuga noted. “Those found responsible for breaches of safety standards will be held accountable, reaffirming the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring such incidents do not recur.”
The President’s response highlights his administration’s focus on both immediate relief efforts for those affected and long-term solutions to enhance road safety in Nigeria.
The tragedy has cast a pall over the nation, with many expressing grief and solidarity with the victims. President Tinubu’s actions and his call for stronger safety regulations aim to reassure citizens that steps are being taken to prevent future occurrences of such catastrophic events.
