Abeokuta, Nigeria – Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has issued a stern warning to commercial drivers against transporting flammable materials in their vehicles, emphasizing the critical need for passenger safety.
The caution comes in the wake of a devastating explosion involving a white Mazda bus (registration number KJA 949 YJ) at Muhammadu Buhari Estate along the Abeokuta-Sagamu Expressway on Tuesday around 1 p.m.
According to Reporter, the ill-fated vehicle was carrying a filled gas cylinder, which exploded, triggering a massive fire outbreak. The tragic incident claimed the lives of sixteen passengers, who were burnt beyond recognition, while three others sustained severe injuries. Two individuals miraculously escaped unhurt.
Reacting to the disaster, Governor Abiodun described the explosion as preventable. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, the governor underscored the importance of enforcing strict protocols for handling and transporting hazardous substances, particularly gas and petroleum products.
He urged the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) to intensify awareness among their members on the dangers associated with transporting flammable materials.
“This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers linked to the transportation of flammable materials,” Abiodun stated. “As we grapple with the aftermath of this tragedy, all stakeholders—drivers, unions, and regulatory bodies—must collaborate to prevent a recurrence.”
The governor stressed that passenger safety must remain a top priority and called for collective efforts to minimize risks on the roads through best practices and adherence to safety regulations.
Meanwhile, Governor Abiodun extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, praying for divine strength and comfort in their time of grief.
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