OLUKU TANKER FIRE: MOMOH SYMPATHISES WITH VICTIMS, CALLS FOR THOROUGH INVESTIGATION AND STRONGER SAFETY MEASURES
I am deeply saddened by the devastating tanker fire at Oluku, in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, which left people injured and destroyed shops, vehicles and livelihoods.
My heartfelt sympathy goes to the victims, their families, the traders and the entire Oluku community. For families watching their loved ones receive treatment, and traders confronted with the destruction of years of hard work, this is a profoundly painful time. I pray for the speedy recovery of everyone injured and strength for all those affected.
I commend the medical personnel, firefighters, security agencies and other emergency responders working to save lives and contain the damage.
The circumstances surrounding this tragedy deserve a thorough investigation. The relevant authorities must establish both its immediate and remote causes, including why the tanker overturned, how the spilled fuel ignited and spread, and what measures could have prevented the scale of the destruction.
I will engage the relevant authorities to seek a comprehensive examination of the incident and encourage practical action on the findings. Protecting lives requires that the lessons from this tragedy translate into stronger prevention, effective enforcement and improved emergency preparedness.
I also appeal earnestly to our people: please do not approach fallen tankers or attempt to scoop spilled fuel. Move away from the scene, alert emergency services and allow responders to work. No quantity of petrol is worth a human life.
Tanker operators must take vehicle maintenance and driver safety seriously, while the responsible agencies must strengthen safety checks, public education and the protection of communities along busy transport corridors.
At this difficult moment, our priority must be compassion for the victims, support for those affected and determined action to prevent another community from experiencing such devastation.
Engr. Abubakar Momoh, FNSE
Honourable Minister of Regional Development
