Petrol tanker explosions in Nigeria have become a pressing concern, with alarming statistics revealing that no fewer than 555 people lost their lives between January 2020 and January 2025. Data from the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) has highlighted the severity of these incidents, prompting urgent discussions on safety measures and regulations.

According to Joyce Alexander, the Sector Commander of the FRSC in Anambra State, these fatal accidents have caused extensive loss of life and destruction of property.

Speaking at a town hall meeting on “Tanker and Trailer Safety Challenges in Nigeria” in Awka, she outlined the staggering figures:

2020: 18 tanker explosions, 161 deaths.

2021: 19 tanker explosions, 55 fatalities.

2022: 14 tanker explosions, 76 deaths.

2023: 13 tanker explosions, 118 fatalities.

2024: 13 tanker explosions, 85 casualties.

January 2025: 7 recorded tanker explosions.

Recognising the severity of the situation, the FRSC has proposed several strategies to curb tanker-related accidents:

Strict Enforcement of Speed Limits: Ensuring that haulage vehicles are equipped with speed-limiting devices.

Regular Training for Drivers: Educating tanker operators on road safety measures and responsible driving habits.

Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance: Mandating periodic checks to identify and fix mechanical faults before tankers hit the road.

Legislative Action: Introducing harsher penalties for tanker owners who fail to comply with safety standards.

Establishing Rest Areas: Providing designated stops to prevent fatigue-related accidents.

Uche Noah, a Chief Superintendent of Police and the Divisional Police Officer of ‘B’ Division, Awka, urged drivers to avoid alcohol and illicit substances while on duty, which significantly contribute to road accidents.

By Amina Samuel, Kaduna

The Catholic Archbishop of Kaduna, Most Rev Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso, has commended Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani for fostering an inclusive government and uniting the people of the state.

Speaking at the 2025 Kaduna North Annual Deanery Cathedraticum, Archbishop Ndagoso praised Governor Sani’s leadership, contrasting it with the divisive policies of the previous administration under Nasir el-Rufai.

“The past administration divided the people; many did not feel a sense of belonging across the senatorial districts,” Ndagoso said.

“The past government acknowledged only a selected few, but in the last two years, Governor Uba Sani has bridged the gap created by his predecessor.”

The Archbishop urged the Catholic community to focus on their faith rather than the shortcomings of individual priests.

“Nobody is perfect, and no one should judge another. We should learn to adjust our ways and look at Jesus Christ, who died on the cross for mankind,” he said.

Ndagoso also commended the lay faithful for their unwavering support of the archdiocese and called on Kaduna residents and Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence regardless of religion or ethnicity.

Similarly, Lt. Col. G.O.I, Parish Priest of the Chaplaincy of St Peter’s Ribadu Cantonment, expressed gratitude to the Archbishop for selecting his parish to host this year’s Cathedraticum.

A courtroom drama unfolded at the Federal High Court in Abuja as Justice Ekwo openly dismissed the legitimacy of Barrister Pius Sunday Okeoma, who was representing the petitioner in the case involving former Minister of Special Duties, Kabir Tanimu Turaki, SAN.

During a court session, Justice Ekwo declared that Okeoma had no recognised standing in the case, as he had neither filed an appearance nor signed any documents related to the proceedings.

The judge’s remarks followed Okeoma’s previous attempt on 24 March to have the case transferred from its initial court, citing a lack of confidence in the judiciary.

On 28 March, Justice Ekwo firmly addressed Okeoma, stating, “As far as I am concerned, we do not know you in this court, and you have never appeared or filed any case here. This makes it illegal for you to be present.”

The judge subsequently referred the lawyer to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee for further action.

The case has drawn significant public attention, particularly from the Arewa Renaissance Group, which has raised concerns about the investigation’s integrity.

The group alleged possible collusion between investigating police officers and the petitioner, questioning the rapid pace at which the case was handled and the apparent lack of a fair hearing.

In a further twist, the father of the petitioner, Hadiza, publicly disowned Okeoma’s involvement, stating that his signature had been used in legal filings without his consent. He has since demanded that the lawyer withdraw from the case.

The Arewa Renaissance Group, through its coordinator, Usman Abba, has urged the Inspector General of Police to take decisive action.

The group has called for the immediate removal of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) in charge of the gender unit at the Force Criminal Investigation Department, citing poor investigative procedures, conspiracy, and defiance of an earlier directive from the IGP.

The directive had instructed that the case be transferred to the Department of Force Intelligence, a move that was allegedly ignored.

The unfolding controversy continues to generate debate over the handling of high-profile cases and the transparency of Nigeria’s judicial process.