The tragic tanker explosion in Majiya town, Jigawa State, on October 14, has claimed 209 lives and left 99 others injured, according to the report of the investigative panel set up by the state government.
The panel, chaired by Hafizu Inuwa, presented its findings to Governor Umar Namadi on Wednesday in Dutse.
The explosion, which occurred when a fuel tanker went off in the town, resulted in a significant loss of life and property.
Inuwa disclosed that of the 99 injured, 38 are still hospitalized while 61 others have been discharged. The incident also affected 167 families, some of whom lost multiple members.
The investigation revealed that the explosion caused extensive property damage, with losses amounting to millions of Naira.
Factors contributing to the accident were identified as poor road conditions, including damaged speed bumps and potholes near the accident site.
Additionally, the panel cited night driving and speeding as major factors that led to the explosion.
The report suggested that the ignition of the fire may have been caused by the friction of metallic objects with surfaces or other containers, as some victims were reportedly attempting to scoop spilled fuel at the scene.
Inuwa recommended several measures to prevent future accidents, including regular inspections and stricter enforcement of safety protocols for petroleum transporters.
The panel also called for the establishment of trauma and burns units in hospitals, the upgrading of emergency response services, and the creation of a dedicated road traffic control agency.
To assist the victims and their families, the panel proposed that vulnerable individuals and relatives of the deceased be enrolled in the Danmodi Care Programme for social protection.
Governor Namadi expressed his gratitude to the panel for its thorough investigation and assured that the state government would act on the recommendations.
He reiterated his commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the citizens by improving road safety and emergency response systems.
