By Ibrahim Ammani
Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation has called for a thorough investigation into the tragic petrol tanker explosion that rocked Majiya in Jigawa State on Wednesday, saying that such explosions have become too frequent across Nigeria.
The Foundation in a condolence message to the people and government of Jigawa State over the incident that claimed scores of lives and left several others injured, called for enhanced safety measures to prevent or mitigate the impact of such disasters.
The statement signed by the Foundation’s Director General, Engr (Dr) Abubakar Gambo Umar also called for government’s investment in emergency response, infrastructure, and capacity building.
It read: “The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation is deeply saddened by the tragic petrol tanker explosion that occurred on Wednesday 16th October 2024 in Majiya, Jigawa State, resulting in the loss of many precious lives and leaving several others injured.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the people of Majiya, and the government and people of Jigawa State. Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this devastating incident.
“Regrettably, such accidents have become all too frequent across our country, claiming countless lives and causing untold suffering. This trend underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures to prevent or mitigate the impact of such disasters.
“We call on the relevant authorities to: Conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion; Provide immediate assistance and support to the affected families; Strengthen safety regulations and enforcement across the petroleum industry; and Invest in emergency response infrastructure and capacity building.
“We also appeal to corporate organizations, individuals, and philanthropic institutions to provide humanitarian aid to the victims and their families.
“In this moment of grief, we stand in solidarity with the people of Jigawa State and Nigeria as a whole,” it said.