Jigawa Tragedy: FRSC Boss Commiserates With Victims, Orders Investigation
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
The Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has commiserated with the families of victims of the petrol tanker fire incident, as well as the Government of Jigawa State.
The FRSC boss, while stating that his thoughts and prayers are with the affected families and the people of the State, explained that the unfortunate incident underscores the importance of adhering to safety regulations at all times, and urged all road users to exercise caution, and always await FRSC emergency and rescue operatives to handle any of such emergencies.
The sad incident that happened in Majia, Jigawa State, led to 94 people getting burnt to death while scooping Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), from a fallen tanker.
The fire was ignited when the villagers rushed out to scoop fuel from the detached tanker of a DAF vehicle and hour after it crashed. The crash itself had no casualties as the driver and conductor survived without any injuries. It occurred when the DAF tanker, loaded with Premium Motor Spirit attempted to dodge a speed bump while on a high speed. The resultant impact of the driver’s action while on high speed, detached the tanker from the body of the articulated vehicle.
Corps Marshal Mohammed further stated that it behoves on the Corps to advise the public that whenever an incident of this nature occurs, they should endeavour to stay very far from the tanker, because the product contained therein is always highly flammable and can result to severe injuries and deaths.
Consequently, the Corps Marshal has directed further investigation into the crash, and has issued instant orders to Commanding Officers at the various tank farms to expedite action towards ensuring that all tankers observe the minimum safety standards before they are allowed to convey inflammable substances.
The injured victims have since been rescued to Ringim General Hospital, Jahun General Hospital, and Khadija Clinic Majia for urgent medical attention.
