PDP blames economic hardship, poor infrastructure for Niger tanker explosion tragedy

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has attributed the tragic tanker explosion at Dikko Junction along the Dikko-Maje Minna Road in Niger State, which claimed the lives of over 85 people on Saturday, to economic hardship and Nigeria’s deteriorating infrastructure under the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government.

The tragic explosion has reignited debates over the state of Nigeria’s road infrastructure, safety regulations, and the impact of economic hardship on citizens’ lives

In a statement signed on Monday by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the PDP expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and injuries caused by the incident, describing it as part of a series of avoidable tragedies plaguing the nation.

“This recent disaster adds to the ugly wave of tragic occurrences that have befallen our dear nation due to the deplorable state of infrastructure and disorienting economic hardship occasioned by the gross neglect of the wellbeing of the citizens since the inception of the APC in government,” the statement read.

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The party lamented that Nigerians, especially the youth and breadwinners, continue to suffer and die due to poor governance. It called on the Federal Government to go beyond investigating the incident and take concrete steps to address the underlying causes of such tragedies.

“The Federal Government should end its resort to lip service and take steps to put adequate measures in place to ensure safer roads and prevent the recurrence of such tragic incidents in the country,” the PDP urged.

While commending the police, firefighters, Federal Road Safety Corps, and other responders for their swift action in controlling the fire and rescuing victims, the PDP called for immediate interventions to prevent further loss of lives.

The party extended its condolences to the families of the victims, the government, and the people of Niger State. It also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured and the strength for grieving families to endure the loss.