Worried by the casualties of the tanker explosion in Jigawa State, President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday dispatched the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, to lead a Federal Government delegation to the state.
Nigerians have been grieving since news filtered in on Tuesday night, following an inferno in Majia town, Jigawa State, which has claimed over 90 lives.
Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said in a statement that the government delegation will comprise the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; Minister of Transportation, Senator Saidu Alkali; Corps Marshall of the Federal Roads Safety Commission, Mr Shehu Mohammed; and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North West), Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai.
He confirmed that while in Jigawa, the delegation will visit the scene of the incident to assess the situation and visit injured persons in the hospital.
“The President further directs that emergency aid, including medical supplies, food, and shelter, be extended to the 50 victims receiving treatment and others affected by the fire.
“The President, with a heavy heart, joins the Vice President in extending his deepest condolences to the families of the victims of this devastating incident.
“He expresses his heartfelt prayers and support to the government and people of Jigawa during this time of tragic loss and grief,” the statement added.
According to Onanuga, President Tinubu prayed for divine comfort for the bereaved families and the peaceful repose for the souls of the departed.
He reassured the nation that the Federal Government, in collaboration with states, is committed to the swift and comprehensive review of fuel transportation safety protocols across the country.
He restated his directive to the Federal Roads Safety Corps to strengthen nighttime travel measures, such as increased patrols, stricter enforcement of safety regulations, and other highway safety mechanisms.
He said those found responsible for breaches of safety standards will be held accountable, reaffirming the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring such incidents do not recur.
