The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) has described the fuel tanker explosion that killed several people in Essa community of Katcha Local Government Area, Niger State, as a deeply distressing and painful tragedy.

In a statement on Wednesday, the NSGF Chairman and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, expressed profound sorrow over the incident that claimed many lives.

He extended condolences to the government and people of Niger State, especially to the families of the victims and Governor Mohammed Umar Bago.

“This tragedy is profoundly distressing and painful. Our thoughts and prayers are with every family affected by this catastrophic incident, as well as the government and people of Niger State in this moment of grief,” he said.

Governor Yahaya also warned Nigerians against the dangerous act of scooping fuel or engaging in risky behavior at accident scenes.

He said the sad event serves as a reminder of the urgent need for stronger safety measures and public awareness about the hazards of transporting combustible materials.

“This unfortunate occurrence underscores the urgent need for improved safety standards and greater public awareness on the dangers associated with the transportation of combustible materials. Governments, regulatory agencies, and the public must work together to prevent avoidable tragedies of this nature,” Yahaya added.

He commended emergency responders, security agencies, and volunteers for their quick efforts in rescuing victims and reducing the scale of the disaster.

Yahaya prayed for the souls of the deceased and quick recovery for the injured, assuring that the forum will continue collaborating with federal and state agencies to strengthen disaster prevention and response systems to protect lives and livelihoods in the region.

Northern governors lament as death toll from Niger tanker explosion rises