Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic petroleum tanker explosion that claimed over 80 lives and left many injured in Diko, Niger State, on Saturday.
The incident, which occurred on the Abuja-Kaduna highway, has reignited calls for urgent public education on the dangers of rushing to accident scenes to scoop fuel.
ACF, in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. T.A. Muhammad-Baba, and made available to journalists in Kaduna on Monday described the event as a national disaster that highlights the country’s inadequate disaster preparedness and the consequences of public ignorance regarding inflammable substances.
While commending the Niger State government, federal security agencies, and first responders for their swift actions, they however, emphasised the need for long-term solutions, like a stricter enforcement of safety laws by regulatory and security agencies to prevent reckless transportation of inflammable substances.
The ACF also condemned the decline in societal values that encourage people to prioritise personal gain over safety and humanity, calling on the government to mobilise humanitarian reliefs such as food, shelter and medication for victims to manage the circumstances.
“This heartbreaking incident, coming only months after a similar tragedy in Majia, Jigawa State, underscores the urgent need for a nationwide public enlightenment campaign.
“The rush to collect spilled fuel, often driven by economic hardship, continues to lead to avoidable loss of lives and destruction of property,” the statement read.
Eyewitnesses recounted how the explosion was triggered when desperate individuals swarmed the overturned tanker, scooping petrol with disregard for their safety. Within moments, a spark ignited a massive inferno, leaving devastation in its wake.
While authorities responded swiftly, the aftermath of the explosion left Diko in mourning with burnt vehicles, charred bodies, and grieving families painted a grim picture of the catastrophe.
Many of the injured are currently receiving treatment in hospitals, while rescue workers continue their search-and-recovery efforts.