- Safiu Kehinde
Former Nigerian Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has called for the establishment of a Presidential panel to investigate the fuel tanker explosion which occurred yesterday along Karu bridge, Abuja.
NPO Reported that the tragic incident claimed several lives with over 30 vehicles destroyed.
However, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed six deaths, 25 injured, and 18 cars destroyed.
Reacting in a statement on X handle, Atiku labelled the incident as unacceptable as he recalled similar incident along Otedola bridge, Lagos, when claimed four lives with over 20 others sustaining various degrees of injuries.
The ex-Vice President held the recurrence of the tragic incident must be treated as national emergency as he charged the Federal Government to establish a Presidential panel to investigate the causes of these explosions and implement urgent, practical solutions to prevent future occurrences.
Atiku said citizens’ safety is non-negotiable as he expressed his condolences to the families of the victims.
“I have just been briefed on yet another devastating tanker explosion at the Karu Bridge along the Abuja-Nyanya-Keffi Highway of the Federal Capital Territory.
“This is an unacceptable and recurring tragedy that has claimed far too many innocent lives and destroyed countless properties.
“With this latest incident, it is clear that tanker explosions must be treated as a national emergency. Two weeks ago, we witnessed a similar disaster at Otedola Bridge in Lagos. How many more lives must be lost before decisive action is taken?
“I call for the immediate establishment of a high-powered presidential panel to investigate the causes of these explosions and implement urgent, practical solutions to prevent future occurrences.
“The safety of our citizens is non-negotiable, and we must end this cycle of destruction.
“Reports indicate that multiple lives have been lost in today’s incident. My heart goes out to the victims and their families.
“I urge the relevant authorities to mobilize all available resources to provide the injured with free and comprehensive medical care.
“To the families mourning their loved ones, may you find strength and comfort in this difficult time. I pray for the peaceful repose of the departed souls.” He wrote.