Jigawa explosion: FRSC enforces safety checks on tankers at loading

FILE: Jigawa explosion scene

The Federal Road Safety Corps has restated that no tanker is permitted to load without first passing a series of rigorous safety inspections, amid rising concerns over frequent tanker explosions.

The PUNCH reported an explosion on October 15 at Majia, in the Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State, involving a petrol-laden truck travelling from Kano to Nguru in Yobe State.

The blast resulted in over 100 immediate fatalities, with several still critically injured.

Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, giving an update on the death toll, said 181 had died from the incident as of October 22, while 80 individuals remained in critical condition in hospitals.

The FRSC spokesperson, Olusegun Ogungbemide, on Wednesday, stated that the corps had been enforcing the installation of safety valves and other safety features on tankers through its “Safe to Load” programme.

Ogungbbmide said, “The corps has been enforcing mandatory retrofitting and installation of safety valves on tankers.

”The corps has a programme called, ‘Safe To Load’. This is a programme where FRSC has redeployed officers and men to depots nationwide.

”They are to inspect all safety measures, including reflective tapes, safety valves, fire extinguishers, etc on tankers before giving them a gate pass to enter the loading terminals,” Ogungbemide stated.

He added that the programme, which has FRSC officers stationed at depots across the country, was designed to minimise risks and prevent tanker-related accidents.

In response to calls for increased enforcement, Ogungbemide stressed that the FRSC had been conducting special patrols targeting tankers, trailers, and articulated vehicles, with a focus on preventing overloading and other safety violations.