The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has commiserated with the Government and people of Jigawa State, over the tragic loss of over 150 people and injury to over 50 people occasioned by an accident involving a petrol tanker passing through Majiya town of the State.
In a statement , the ACF National Publicity Secretary, Prof. T. A Muhammad-Baba noted,”The incident occurred about two days ago, and as people rushed to scoop petrol gushing out of the tanker, there erupted a fireball, leading to the regrettable deaths and injuries.
“That such avoidable incidents continue to happen with catastrophic human costs is highly unfortunate, as they inevitably leave in their wake tales of woe in deaths, property losses, and disruptions to livelihoods. Coming as this incident affects a population already facing daunting challenges—caused by a downturn in the country’s economy, insecurity, and food shortages—makes the tragedy even more grievous.
“The ACF deeply mourns the lives lost and extends condolences to the people of Majiya town, as well as to the Government and people of Jigawa State. ACF further prays for God Almighty’s succor to the injured, wishing them a quick recovery and return to good health.”
The ACF also commends the swift response of the Federal and State Governments to the tragedy and calls on public emergency response and humanitarian relief agencies, the Nigeria Police, and other first responders—including emergency medical, security, fire, and state emergency agency personnel—to do more. Emergency food, shelter, medications, and other necessities should be provided to the victims in the Majiya community without bureaucratic delays. Given that the victims include breadwinners and vulnerable populations, attention must be given to restoring what semblance of normal life and livelihoods can be managed under the circumstances. Humanitarian organizations and individuals of means are encouraged to contribute to these efforts.
Furthermore, the ACF calls for proactive measures to prevent future occurrences and mitigate the impact if, God forbid, such tragedies occur again. Public and private multimedia channels should launch enlightenment campaigns to educate people on the dangers of petroleum and other inflammable substances, and how to react in case of spills from any cause. Traditional leaders, clerics, and other community stakeholders must be involved in these campaigns.
Similarly, regulatory and environmental bodies, along with security agencies, should enforce relevant laws and regulations. Incompetence, laxity, dereliction of duty, and corrupt practices must no longer be tolerated.
May God Almighty continue to protect peoples and communities from all natural and human-induced calamities.
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