The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has reiterated that no tanker is allowed to load without undergoing a stringent series of safety inspections.
This announcement comes in light of increasing worries over frequent tanker explosions, including a devastating incident on October 15 in Majia, Jigawa State, which resulted in significant loss of life.
The explosion involved a petrol-laden truck traveling from Kano to Nguru in Yobe State, leading to over 100 immediate fatalities. As of October 22, Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi reported that the death toll has risen to 181, with 80 individuals still in critical condition in hospitals.
FRSC spokesperson Olusegun Ogungbemide confirmed on Wednesday that the corps has been actively enforcing the installation of safety features on tankers through its “Safe to Load” program. He emphasized the importance of these safety measures, stating, “The corps has been enforcing mandatory retrofitting and installation of safety valves on tankers.”
The “Safe to Load” initiative includes the deployment of FRSC officers to depots nationwide to inspect safety measures such as reflective tapes, safety valves, and fire extinguishers before granting gate passes for loading.
Ogungbemide added that the program aims to minimize risks and prevent tanker-related accidents. In response to calls for enhanced enforcement, he noted that the FRSC has been conducting special patrols focused on tankers, trailers, and articulated vehicles to prevent overloading and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
