The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, has ordered the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to investigate the circumstances surrounding Tuesday’s petrol tanker explosion in Jigawa State.
The minister expressed sorrow over the incident that occurred at Majiya town I in the Taura local government area of the state where over 100 died and several others sustained injuries.
Lokpobiri gave the directive in a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Nneamaka Okafor.
He urged petroleum transporters to ensure that only drivers who are certified and fully compliant with safety standards as stipulated by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) are employed to transport petroleum products.
READ ALSO: Tragedy strikes Jigawa as petrol tanker explosion claims 105 lives
The minister said: “I wish to admonish Nigerians to desist from approaching vehicles transporting petroleum products that have been involved in accidents or mechanical failures.
“While we understand the temptation to freeload, the dangers of attempting to collect spilled fuel cannot be overstated.
“The tragic loss of lives in this incident serves as a grim reminder of the severe risks involved.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the Federal Government, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected by this devastating incident.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured, and we wish them a swift and full recovery.”
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