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Atiku Calls for Safer Transport After Deadly Jigawa Petrol Tanker Explosion

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Atiku Abubakar, the former Vice President of Nigeria and a prominent political figure, has expressed deep sorrow following a tragic petrol tanker explosion in Majiya town, located in the Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

The explosion, which claimed numerous lives, is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers posed by the transportation of flammable materials like petroleum across the country.

Atiku, in his statement, emphasized that this incident is yet another in a long list of similar tragic occurrences involving petrol tankers in Nigeria.

He called for urgent reforms in the transportation of petroleum products, stressing the need to explore safer alternatives such as rail transport.

According to him, it is essential to consider other means of transporting petroleum products across the country to prevent further tragedies.

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He also pointed out the importance of ensuring that drivers who handle the transportation of such hazardous materials are adequately trained.

Atiku urged the authorities to review and update the protocols for transporting not only petroleum products but also other inflammable substances.

His appeal reflects growing concerns about the frequency of accidents involving tankers, which are often poorly maintained or driven under unsafe conditions.

In his message of condolence, Atiku extended his sympathy to the people and government of Jigawa State, urging them to respond swiftly with rescue operations and medical aid.

He stressed that no resource should be spared in providing care for those injured in the explosion.

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He also shared his grief with families who lost loved ones, offering prayers for comfort and eternal rest for the deceased.

The incident in Majiya town is particularly tragic given that the region has seen its fair share of similar accidents in recent years.

Petrol tanker explosions have become a recurring disaster in Nigeria, with many communities witnessing loss of lives, destruction of property, and environmental damage.

These accidents are often attributed to factors like poorly maintained roads, overworked drivers, and inadequate safety measures.

Atiku’s call for the use of rail transport highlights a solution that could mitigate the risks associated with road transport.

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Railways provide a safer and more efficient way to move large quantities of fuel, reducing the chances of accidents and easing pressure on Nigeria’s overstretched road network.

However, significant investment would be required to modernize and expand the country’s rail infrastructure.

In addition to rail transport, Atiku’s suggestion of improved training for drivers is crucial.

Tanker drivers are often tasked with long, exhausting journeys on treacherous roads, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Proper training, alongside stricter enforcement of safety regulations, could reduce the frequency of such tragedies.

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The Jigawa State Government has already mobilized rescue teams to respond to the explosion, with local hospitals treating the injured.

However, the scale of the disaster means that resources are stretched, and the government may need external assistance to provide adequate care and compensation to victims and their families.

This tragedy has once again underscored the urgent need for reforms in Nigeria’s transport and energy sectors.

The government, industry stakeholders, and civil society groups must collaborate to implement long-term solutions that protect both lives and property.

Atiku’s message reflects shared grief across the nation and a hope that measures will be taken to prevent further disasters of this nature.

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NDLEA Thwarts Multiple Drug Smuggling Attempts at Lagos and Abuja Airports

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The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intercepted large drug consignments at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) in Abuja.

On November 5, 2024, NDLEA officers seized 4.40kg of cocaine headed for the UK, arresting businessman Ekeocha Anayo Nelson.

On November 11, Adegbite Solomon was caught attempting to smuggle opioids to Italy. A few days later, Anoke Kingsley Roomy was arrested with 1,100 tramadol pills bound for Turkey.

In Abuja, Omeh Uchenna Jude and Anene Valentine Chigozie were arrested on November 15 with 1.8kg of methamphetamine intended for Qatar. That same day, Akande Moruf Olasunkanmi was apprehended in Lagos with 1.8kg of methamphetamine.

These arrests highlight the NDLEA’s ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking.

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Suspected Cultists Kill Soldier, Three Others in Makurdi

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Suspected cultists have reportedly killed four people, including a soldier, in North Bank, Makurdi, Benue State.

The attacks occurred on Thursday and Friday nights, with eyewitnesses linking the incidents to ongoing clashes between rival cult groups in the area.

Nura Umar, Chairman of the vigilante group Operation Shara, confirmed the killings and stated that the victims, including two young men, were not cultists but fell victim to the rampage.

He added that a suspected cultist was also killed in his home on Thursday.

The Benue State Police Command confirmed the cult activities but reported only one civilian casualty. Police spokesperson Catherine Anene assured that additional operatives had been deployed to the area to restore order.

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Peter Obi Addresses African Business Forum at Wharton

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Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State and a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, delivered a thought-provoking keynote address at the African Business Forum held at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, USA.

The event, which has been a platform for discussions on Africa’s progress for over 30 years, brought together over 500 students, many of them from Nigeria and other parts of Africa, to engage in deep conversations about the continent’s future.

Wharton, known as America’s oldest business school, has long been a hub for intellectual dialogue and innovation.

This year’s forum centred on the role young Africans can play in building a prosperous Africa and how the next generation can tackle the continent’s long-standing challenges.

Peter Obi, drawing from his wealth of experience in business and public service, shared insights on leadership, resilience, and community engagement.

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During his address, Obi made mention of the immense potential of Africa, emphasizing that the continent is blessed with abundant natural and human resources.

However, he lamented that this potential has often been squandered due to poor leadership and systemic failures over the years.

Speaking directly to the young African students in attendance, Obi stressed that they hold the key to rewriting the continent’s narrative.

He reflects on his journey, from his early days in the trading world to his achievements in corporate life and public service.

He acknowledged the hurdles he faced but underlined the importance of persistence and determination in overcoming obstacles.

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Obi states that his experiences taught him the value of resilience and the need to stay committed to one’s goals, regardless of challenges.

Obi also spoke about the importance of leveraging knowledge and education for societal transformation.

As someone who has studied at top global institutions, including Harvard and the London School of Economics, he emphasizes that true fulfilment comes not just from personal success but from using one’s skills and knowledge to improve the lives of others.

He urges the students to engage with their communities at the grassroots level, arguing that meaningful change must start from the bottom up.


 

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