Kogi explosion: Minister condoles with victims

Hajiya Sadiya Farouq, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, has expressed deep concern over the explosion that rocked the Felele area of Lokoja in Kogi.

The explosion, which hit the area on Thursday, killed more than 20 persons.

Farouq, in a statement on Friday in Abuja, described the incident as “disturbing and worrisome”.

The statement signed by her Special Assistant on Media, Mrs Nneka Anibeze, regretted the rising incidences of tragic petrol and gas explosions in the country, and called for measures to tackle the trend.

According to her, the Federal Road Safety Corps has confirmed the death of 23 persons, including a man, his wife and three children.

Among those confirmed killed are five students of the Kogi State Polytechnic and school children while several vehicles were destroyed.

Reports said that 10 victims were burnt beyond recognition while six others sustained third degree burns.

The explosion occurred after a fuel tanker crashed into a commercial bus in Felele.

“I am deeply touched and disturbed about the tragic incident which claimed the lives of several innocent persons.

“I condole with their families, the government and people of Kogi over the unfortunate incident.

“I also pray for the speedy recovery of the injured and the repose of the souls of the dead,” she said.

The Minister called for an extensive investigation into the accident and appealed to concerned authorities to beef up road safety measures to protect road users.