The reoccurring trend of scooping fuel from fallen tankers by Nigerians in some parts of the country has continued to spark reactions, with the latest coming from Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections, Atiku Abubakar.
Atiku spoke via a statement on X handle on Thursday, October 24, while reacting to a viral video showing residents scooping petrol from a fallen tanker in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The footage, which spread like wildfire captured dozens of locals with buckets and containers, collecting fuel without fear or regard for their safety.
Furthermore, Atiku’s reaction comes shortly after a tragic incident in Jigawa State on October 16, where over 180 people lost their lives and many others were injured while engaging in the risky act.
A tanker, loaded with petrol, had fallen off the road along the Kano-Hadejia expressway and residents present at the scene saw an opportunity to get free petrol.
However, as the victims scooped the fuel, that was when the explosion occurred.
In his reaction, Atiku warned that the economic hardship ravaging the country is not enough for Nigerians to mortgage their lives.
According to him, government agencies should engage citizens and educate them on the dangers of scooping petrol from a fallen tanker.
Atiku decried the tragic incident in Cross River.
He described the act as a suicidal one and called on the government to do everything in its power to avert such tragedies.
Atiku’s statement reads, “I know that the times are tough for Nigerians. However, your lives are the most precious things that should never be mortgaged.
“This is why it is pertinent that the concerned government MDAs should commence a robust campaign to educate citizens on the dangers of scooping fuel from fallen petroleum tankers.”
“Your lives matter to you and your loved ones. Scooping petrol, a highly flammable liquid from a fallen tanker, is a suicide that no one should undertake.
“We’ve experienced too many tragedies from incidents such as the latest one in Cross River State, and everything must be done to avert another. -AA”