The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, commiserates with the people, and government of Niger State on the tragic incident of the petrol tanker explosion that occurred on Saturday morning along the Dikko-Maje road, opposite the Badeggi filling station, Suleja Local Government Area of Niger State resulting in the loss of over 70 lives.
The Minister is deeply saddened by the unfortunate event, which occurred when a petrol tanker overturned and spilled fuel, prompting people to gather and scoop the fuel, unaware of the imminent danger. The subsequent explosion and fire engulfed those gathered, including rescue efforts, resulting in a significant loss of life and property.
The Honourable Minister extends her condolences to the Government, families of the victims and the people of Niger State. She prays for the speedy recovery of those injured and for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed.
The Minister commends the swift efforts of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Suleja Local Government officials, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the volunteers in evacuating the victims and responding to the emergency.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim urge the general public to exercise caution and vigilance in situations involving hazardous materials, such as petroleum products.
The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs will continue to work closely with relevant authorities and stakeholders to provide support to those affected by the tragedy, she said.
