Death toll rises in Niger petrol tanker fire incident

Contrary to the casualty figures earlier released by the Federal Road Safety Commander (FRSC), the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has disclosed that over 73 lives were lost to the petrol tanker fire incident that happened in Niger State.

TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports the horrific petrol tanker fire incident occurred on Saturday morning at Dikko Junction, Abuja-Kaduna Expressway, Niger State, after the truck loaded with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol, lost control and eventually caught fire.

The loaded petrol tanker fell at the scene of the incident with people scooping the spilling fuel, unaware of the impending danger. Those who went to scoop fuel were engulfed by the flames just as those who went to rescue them were also affected.

Giving an update on the incident the FRSC Command in Niger had said no fewer than 50 persons lost their lives. However, the NPF has confirmed that over 73 lives were lost and that numerous others were injured, with the destruction of several shops and property.

TNG reports ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, confirmed this in a statement conveying a message by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun to the government and people of Niger, following the tragic incident.

“The IGP, while emphasizing the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols on our roads, warns firmly against the negligence and disregard for regulations that can lead to such catastrophic incidents,” the statement reads.

The statement also disclosed that the IGP has as a result of the incident directed all State Commissioners of Police to strengthen their Motor Traffic Divisions (MTDs) of their respective State Commands, in collaboration with other traffic management agencies, to ensure strict compliance and enforcement of established protocols and traffic regulations on highways.

“The IGP further charged vehicle owners and drivers to ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy and abide by the traffic rules in order to prevent any tragedies.

“The IGP, while praying for the souls of the departed, therefore calls on all stakeholders, including transport operators and the general public, to prioritize safety and responsibility in their operations and actions, ensuring that such ugly incidents do not occur in the future,” the statement added.