In brief
Mustapha Majiya struggles with grief after losing nearly 50 relatives in a catastrophic tanker explosion that illustrates broader issues of safety neglect in Nigeria’s oil transport system.
Nigerian farmer Mustapha Majiya is engulfed in sorrow after losing nearly 50 members of his extended family in a catastrophic tanker explosion this week. The incident occurred in Jigawa state on Tuesday night when a fuel tanker overturned, leading to flames shooting up into the night sky. "My nephews, Nuradeen Rabiu, 16, and Dini Babalo, 17, were among those who lost their lives. They were bravely attempting to dissuade others from approaching the overturned tanker and attempting to scoop fuel," recalls Majiya, a 50-year-old resident of Majia town. The explosion has been identified as one of the most tragic tanker accidents in Nigeria in recent history, claiming at least 170 lives, with many victims burned beyond recognition. Furthermore, about 100 people sustained serious injuries, and several remain hospitalized with life-threatening conditions.The tanker, filled with petrol, lost control on a poorly lit road just as residents noticed the opportunity to collect free fuel. Driven by the desperation of skyrocketing petrol prices—a situation exacerbated by shortages—many, including youths and teenagers, rushed to collect the liquid before the disastrous explosion occurred."I had just bought them new textbooks and uniforms for school," Majiya expressed, still in disbelief over the tragedy. He also mourns his longtime friend Jamilu Maigaji, who was at the scene attempting to help.Experts warn that such tragedies could be prevented with better strategic planning and safety measures, as petroleum products are predominantly transported by road in Nigeria, a significant oil-producing country. Kola Ashiru-Balogun, an urban developer, emphasized the need for more investment in rail freight systems across the country.The Federal Road Safety Corps reported over 1,500 accidents involving fuel tankers in 2020 alone, resulting in 535 deaths. And only last month, another fuel tanker accident in Niger state claimed 59 lives.Amid ongoing investigations and governmental reassurances to prevent further occurrences, calls for improved safety measures have intensified. Vice-President Kashim Shettima highlighted the need for public awareness regarding the dangers of approaching crashed tankers, and the National Road Safety Advisory Council (Narsac) was recently established to address these issues.However, safety experts like Timothy Iwuagwu, president of the Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria, argue that the real issue lies not in the absence of policies but in their implementation, citing poorly maintained roads and untrained drivers as contributing factors to these frequent accidents.As Nigeria grapples with soaring inflation levels and crippling economic challenges, the government’s promise to investigate the Jigawa tragedy raises skepticism among citizens. Majiya reflects the grief swirling through his community, saying, "The government has pledged to support the community and the survivors. We are waiting for that help."As the nation mourns, the push for government accountability and the assurance of safety for its citizens becomes more critical than ever.
