Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum (Downstream), has expressed profound sorrow and sympathy for the people and government of Enugu State following the tragic fuel tanker explosion that claimed several lives and left many others injured.
Ugochinyere, who represents the Ideato Federal Constituency of Imo State, issued a statement on Sunday, lamenting the recurrence of such disasters, which comes just a week after a similar explosion in Niger State.
He extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
In his statement, Ugochinyere described the incident as a national tragedy, highlighting the need for stronger measures to prevent future occurrences.
He said he would propose legislation aimed at regulating the movement of fuel tankers, especially at night, to improve road safety.
“I am deeply saddened by the horrific tanker explosion that occurred on Saturday along the 9th Mile 82 Division Expressway in Enugu, when a tanker carrying Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) collided with vehicles and ignited a deadly blaze, resulting in numerous fatalities,” Ugochinyere said.
“It is heartbreaking that this tragedy follows closely after another similar explosion in Niger State, which claimed over 80 lives and left many others injured.”
The lawmaker extended his condolences to Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, and prayed for the peaceful repose of those who lost their lives in the tragedy.
He also expressed his hope for the swift recovery of those injured and for their families to find strength during this difficult time.
Ugochinyere called for urgent action by government authorities to prevent further incidents and pledged to introduce legislation to regulate the movement of petrol tankers to ensure the safety of all road users, both day and night.
