***as Lamido Urges FG to explore Use of Rail for Flammable Materials
By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse
Death toll in the tragic tanker explosion in Jigawa State has risen to 180 with injuries to over 80.
The latest reports indicate that the death toll has doubled from the initial count of 90, with many victims receiving medical attention in hospitals across Jigawa, Kano, and Yobe states.
This is happening as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate for 2023 election in the state, Alhaji Mustapha Sule Lamido has asked the federal government to adopt rail transport for the movement of petrol and other flammable materials.
He argued that it will help prevent such catastrophic incidents that continued to claim lives across the country.
Lamido made the appeal while on condolence visit to Majia village, where he met with families and relatives of the victims of last Tuesday’s explosion.
“The federal government should take a cue from developed countries that transport petrol and other hazardous materials by rail to avoid accidents and explosions caused by tankers,” he stated.
He emphasized that the recent tragedy, among others occurring nationwide, should serve as a critical lesson for the government to take immediate action to avert future disasters. “This incident should prompt the government to implement measures to protect citizens and raise public awareness about safety procedures during such emergencies,” he added.
Lamido urged the public to stay vigilant, advising that, in the event of an accident, people should evacuate the area immediately and report the incident to the police and fire services.
“This is a disturbing moment for us, having lost over 180 lives, many of whom are young men. Our prayers are with the deceased and for the swift recovery of the injured,” he remarked.
He reflected on the gravity of the situation, noting that the event would forever remain etched in the memories of Jigawa residents and Nigerians alike.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this devastating incident, Lamido’s called for safer transportation methods highlighting the urgent need for the federal government to take decisive action to enhance public safety and prevent future tragedies.