Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the latest tanker explosion on the Abuja-Keffi road, calling it an “unacceptable and recurring tragedy” that demands immediate government action.
The explosion, which occurred Wednesday evening near the Karu Bridge in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), set multiple vehicles ablaze. While the exact number of casualties remains unknown, eyewitnesses reported significant loss of life and property.
Recurring Tragedy Raises Concerns
Reacting to the incident on his Facebook page, Abubakar urged the federal government to treat tanker explosions as a national emergency, noting that similar disasters continue to claim lives without effective intervention.
“I have just been briefed on yet another devastating tanker explosion at the Karu Bridge along the Abuja-Nyanya-Keffi Highway. This is an unacceptable and recurring tragedy that has claimed far too many innocent lives and destroyed countless properties,” he wrote.
He recalled a recent tanker explosion at Otedola Bridge in Lagos and questioned how many more lives must be lost before the authorities take decisive action.
Call for Urgent Government Action
“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?”
Abubakar called for the establishment of a high-powered presidential panel to investigate the causes of these explosions and implement urgent solutions to prevent future occurrences.
Condolences and Support for Victims
“The safety of our citizens is non-negotiable, and we must end this cycle of destruction,” he added.
He also urged the government to provide free and comprehensive medical care to survivors and expressed his condolences to the families of the victims.
As investigations begin, Nigerians are demanding stronger safety measures to prevent further tragedies on the nation’s highways.
