The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadia Umar Farouq has expressed deep grief over the explosion which killed more than 20 persons at the Felele area of Lokoja, Kogi State capital.
The Minister described the incident as incessant, disturbing and worrisome following series of tragic incidences of petrol and gas explosions recorded in the country recently.
“I am deeply touched and disturbed about the tragic incident which claimed the lives of several innocent persons. I condole with their families, the government and people of Kogi State over the unfortunate incident. I also pray for the speedy recovery of the injured and the repose of the souls of the dead”.
Minister Sadia Umar Farouq called for an extensive investigation of the accident and appealed to the concerned authorities to beef up road safety measures to protect road users.
The Federal Road Safety Corps in the state reported the death of 23 persons, including a man, his wife and three children as well as five students of the Kogi State Polytechnic and school children. 10 vehicles were destroyed in the inferno.
Reports said 10 victims were burnt beyond recognition while six others sustained third degree burns.
The explosion occurred after a fuel tanker crashed into and a commercial bus in Felele.
NNEKA IKEM ANIBEZE
SA MEDIA
25-09-2020
