The Northern Senators Forum has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic petrol tanker explosion that occurred at Dikko Junction in Niger State on Saturday, January 18, 2025, leaving many dead and others injured.
In a press release signed by its Chairman, Sen. Abdulaziz Musa Yar’adua, the Forum emphasized the avoidable nature of the disaster, pointing to lapses in enforcing road safety regulations as a significant contributing factor.
“This devastating incident highlights the need for greater vigilance and enforcement of safety regulations on our roads,” the statement read. “Such tragedies could be prevented if enforcement agencies took necessary precautionary measures.”
The Forum called on the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other relevant agencies to ensure all tankers and heavy-duty vehicles are roadworthy and adhere to strict safety standards.
It also cautioned Nigerians against scooping fuel at accident sites, a practice that often exacerbates the consequences of such incidents.
While offering condolences to the families of the victims, the Senators pledged to push for policies that would enhance road safety and prevent future occurrences.
“This enormous damage is both unacceptable and preventable. We mourn with the families of those affected and pray for the souls of the departed,” Sen. Yar’adua concluded.
This tragedy has reignited calls for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and safety protocols on Nigerian roads, highlighting the urgent need for systemic change to avert such disasters in the future.