The Police Command in Jigawa has sensitised stakeholders to mitigate the risks of the fuel tanker and gas-related explosions in the state.
The command’s spokesman, SP Lawan Shiisu, made the disclosure in a statement in Dutse on Thursday.
Shiisu said the command conducted the sensitisation to respond to the tragic wave of tanker explosions and gas-related incidents that had recently claimed numerous human lives and destroyed property across the country.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the sensitisation was conducted by the command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal – Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Base 24.
The command’s spokesman noted that it was also part of the intensified efforts by the command to address the menace through proactive safety education and community engagement.
“The sensitisation was designed to equip participants with knowledge on the nature, causes, and prevention of explosions, especially those resulting from gas leaks, chemical reactions and mechanical failures often linked to tanker accidents and industrial operations.
“The programme further highlighted the importance of personal protective equipment, regular maintenance of equipment and adherence to best safety practices,” he said.
According to him, the participants whose daily activities involve significant exposure to explosion risks are drawn from the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO).
Others are the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Welders’ Association, Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Mechanics’ Association, as well as gas plant operators.
He added that the session provided an interactive platform where participants engaged in productive discussions, shared experiences and offered recommendations aimed at enhancing public safety and preventing future tragedies.
“The command, under the leadership of CP Ahmadu Abdullahi, urges stakeholders and the general public to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities and strictly adhere to safety guidelines to prevent avoidable disasters.
NAN recalls that in October 2024, over 200 persons lost their lives, and over 150 others were injured when a petrol tanker exploded in Majia town of Ringim local government area of the state.
