Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for a review of the protocol for the transportation of petroleum products in Nigeria.
In a statement on his X handle on Wednesday, the 2023 presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, said the country must explore rail transportation to move flammable products such as petrol and diesel across the country.
He also commiserated with victims of a tanker explosion in Majiya town in the Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
Atiku said, “The incident in Jigawa is one too many involving tragic petrol tanker explosions in the country.
“It is about time we explored other means, like rail, for transporting petroleum products around the country.
“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.
“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.
“I also sympathize with families that have lost dear ones to this tragic incident and pray that they be comforted and that the deceased find eternal rest.”
Over 140 victims of the petrol tanker explosion were buried on Wednesday.
About 90 other victims of the ugly incident are currently in pain in various hospitals in the state receiving treatment.
The explosion occurred around midnight on Tuesday when the driver of the tanker, travelling from Kano to Nguru in Yobe State, lost control near Khadija University, Majiya.
The tanker, which had departed Kano and was heading to Nguru Town in Yobe State, exploded after the driver lost control.
The disaster, according to the police, was triggered by residents who had rushed to scoop spilt petrol after the tanker overturned.
