The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) has described the tragic fuel tanker explosion in Essa community of Katcha Local Government Area of Niger State as distressing and painful.

Reacting to the unfortunate incident, NSGF Chairman and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident that claimed dozens of lives.

He conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Niger State, particularly to the bereaved families and Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, over the devastating accident that reportedly led to to deaths of many persons.

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“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 stated..

He also cautioned the public against the dangers of scooping fuel and engaging in other hazardous acts during such incidents.

“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, however commended emergency responders, security personnel and volunteers who worked tirelessly to rescue victims and provide relief, noting that their swift intervention helped mitigate the scale of the disaster.

While praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased and speedy recovery of the injured, the governor assured that the forum would continue to work with relevant federal and state agencies to strengthen preventive and responsive systems to safeguard lives and livelihoods in the region.