Jigawa gets panel report on explosion that killed 209

Damaged speed-breakers, potholes, night driving and high speed were factors behind the October 16 tanker explosion in Jigawa State which claimed 209 lives.

This was in the report of the investigation committee on the Majia tanker explosion submitted to Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, on Wednesday.

Presenting the report, the Chairman of the committee, DIG Hafiz Inuwa (retd), stated that 167 families were affected, with 38 victims still on admission, and 61 discharged, apart from the fact that properties worth millions of naira were destroyed in the inferno.

Governor Umar Namadi received the report at the council chambers of the Government House, Dutse, Jigawa State capital.

“The findings revealed that several factors contributed to the fire, including damaged speed bumps and potholes near the scene, night driving, and excessive speed. It was noted that the fire likely ignited due to friction between metallic containers and hard surfaces as victims attempted to scoop spilt fuel,” he said.

The committee also recommended establishing an agency to regulate and manage road traffic, providing sustainable empowerment schemes in Majia town, and enrolling vulnerable victims into the Danmodi Care Programme.

The report also recommended regular inspections and enforcement of safety protocols for petroleum transport vehicles, upgrade of emergency response centres, and establishment of trauma centres and burns units in health facilities across the state.

Inuwa lauded the Jigawa Governor’s timely response and intervention, in the wake of the fire incident.

Governor Namadi assured of quick implementation of the committee’s recommendations to prevent future occurrences.

Namadi emphasised the state’s solidarity with the bereaved families and the entire community affected, saying, “We share in your grief and pain.”