The Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Dr. Olumide Samuel Adeyemi, has expressed profound sorrow over the recent tanker explosion that claimed 40 lives and injured many others in the Essa and Badeggi communities along the Bida–Agaie Road in Katcha Local Government Area of Niger State.

On behalf of the management and personnel of the Federal Fire Service, Dr. Adeyemi extended heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Niger State, as well as to the families of the victims. He prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed souls and a quick recovery for those currently receiving medical treatment.

While sympathizing with the affected communities, the Controller General lamented the recurring incidents of fuel scooping at accident scenes, describing the act as dangerous, reckless, and entirely avoidable. He stressed that such actions continue to cause needless loss of lives and destruction of property.

Dr. Adeyemi reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Fire Service to intensifying nationwide public education and awareness campaigns, particularly in communities located along major petroleum transport routes, to discourage unsafe practices and promote fire safety consciousness.

He further pledged to strengthen collaboration with the Niger State Government, emergency management agencies, and local authorities to enhance emergency response capacity, deepen public sensitization, and enforce compliance with road and fire safety regulations.

The Controller General also appealed to motorists and residents to promptly report fuel spills, tanker accidents, or fire outbreaks to the nearest fire station or through the Service’s emergency hotlines, emphasizing that timely reporting enables quick intervention and helps prevent further casualties.

Dr. Adeyemi concluded by urging Nigerians to remain safety-conscious, vigilant, and committed to collective responsibility in preventing future tragedies of this nature.

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