Civil society organizations (CSOs) are calling for accountability following a tragic tanker explosion in Karu, Abuja, that claimed multiple lives and caused severe damage on Wednesday night.
President Bola Tinubu has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident, emphasizing the need to prevent future tragedies. In a statement, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, conveyed the President’s condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of government support.
Beyond mourning the victims, Tinubu has directed hospitals in Abuja to prioritize the treatment of those injured. He also instructed security agencies, particularly road safety officials, to strengthen monitoring at key entry and exit points to prevent similar disasters.
However, CSOs are urging the government to go beyond condolences and reactive measures. “This tragedy underscores Nigeria’s persistent failures in enforcing road safety and tanker regulations,” a spokesperson from a leading advocacy group stated. “We demand full transparency in the investigation, accountability for any negligence, and concrete policies to prevent further loss of lives.”
As the nation grieves, pressure is mounting on authorities to address systemic lapses in road safety and infrastructure, ensuring that preventable disasters like this do not become routine.
