77 Dead in Suleja Explosion as Southern Governors Condole Niger Governor

The Southern Governors Forum, under the chairmanship of Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has expressed deep sorrow over the tanker fire explosion that claimed 77 lives and left 25 others injured along the Dikko-Maje road in Suleja, Niger State.

In a statement released on Sunday from Abeokuta, Ogun State, Abiodun described the incident as a "devastating tragedy" and conveyed heartfelt condolences to Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, his cabinet, and the people of Niger State. He urged them to remain resilient despite the immense loss.

“To say that we in the Southern Governors Forum are terribly shocked by this devastating tragedy in which as many as 77 people lost their lives and no less than 25 others were grievously injured would be an understatement. This is a soul-crushing event that has befallen Niger State, and we pray that Almighty Allah will comfort the families that lost their loved ones in the incident,” Abiodun stated.

He called for the swift recovery of those injured in the explosion and emphasized the need for strict enforcement of traffic regulations to prevent similar tragedies. 

“We also hope that the security agencies will up their ante and enforce the directives given by His Excellency, Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, to ensure strict enforcement of traffic rules in the state, especially given that this was an entirely avoidable tragedy,” Abiodun said.

Abiodun also used the opportunity to warn Nigerians against the hazardous practice of scooping fuel from fallen tankers. “It is also important to warn Nigerians to desist from the practice of scoping fuel from fallen tankers, as most of the victims of this tragedy were people who ran to the scene of the accident to scoop fuel,” he cautioned.

While commending state and federal agencies for their response efforts, he urged the Federal Government to collaborate with the Niger State Government and provide any necessary support. 

"We appeal to the Federal Government to liaise with the Niger State Government and offer assistance in managing the fallout of this tragedy," he added.

The Southern Governors Forum, he noted, remains united in grief with the people of Niger State and pledged to offer their support as needed.