PETROL TANKER EXPLOSIONS: WHY ARE WE EXPERIENCING THESE TRAGEDIES AGAIN?

By Ohis Asein

Something happened last year that I can still remember vividly. A petrol tanker reportedly lost control, crashed into houses and a First Bank building, and exploded into flames, leading to the tragic loss of many lives close to Orogodo River in Agbor, Delta State.

Following that incident, other petrol tankers exploded in different parts of Nigeria within the same period.

At the time, I did not pay much attention to it. But recent events have forced me to ask serious questions.

Just a few days ago, a petrol tanker exploded at Oluku in Benin City, destroying goods worth millions of naira belonging to traders.

Now, this morning, reports of another petrol tanker explosion near the Orogodo River, Agbor,Delta State with houses reportedly on fire, have raised fresh concerns.

MY QUESTIONS ARE SIMPLE:

1. Why are we experiencing these petrol tanker explosions repeatedly?

2. Is there a connection between the timing of these incidents, or are they simply separate accidents?

3. Are our petrol tankers properly maintained, and are drivers adequately trained to handle these highly inflammable products?

4. Are the relevant authorities doing enough to enforce road safety regulations and prevent overloaded or poorly maintained tankers from operating?

5. What emergency measures are in place to protect communities, traders, motorists and residents when these disasters occur?

I am not suggesting that these incidents are connected, because there is no evidence to establish that. However, the frequency of these tragedies deserves serious investigation.

We cannot continue to count our dead, sympathise with affected families, and move on until another disaster occurs.

The relevant authorities must investigate these incidents, identify their causes, enforce safety regulations and take preventive measures.

How many more lives must be lost before we treat this problem with the urgency it deserves?

My heart goes out to every family affected by these unfortunate incidents. May God comfort those who have lost loved ones and provide relief to those whose homes and businesses have been destroyed.

Nigeria must move from reacting to tanker explosions to preventing them. OUR PEOPLE DESERVE TO BE SAFE.