Nigeria: Over 50 Killed in Fuel Tanker Explosion
Nigeria: Over 50 Killed in Fuel Tanker Explosion
The Facts
At least 59 people have died after a fuel tanker collided with a lorry carrying travelers and cattle in central Nigeria's Niger state at about 00:30 local time on Sunday (19:30 ET Saturday).
According to the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, rescue operations were underway at the site of the accident, and the deceased had been given a mass burial.
The Spin
With such fatal crashes along most major roads in Nigeria becoming a norm, it's clear the country's road safety measures are inadequate. The poor state of roads and the absence of an efficient railway system to transport cargo, especially fuel, has caused tremendous loss of lives and property. It's high time the government recognizes road traffic accidents as a critical issue that demands immediate attention.
Reckless driving, overloading, overspeeding, and poorly maintained vehicles account for more than half of road accident-related deaths in Nigeria. While the cause of Sunday's accident is yet to be determined, the law must punish all erring drivers who disrespect road traffic regulations and suspend their licenses for endangering the lives of innocent people.
