By Rosheedat Akinkunle, JKNewsMedia Reporter
Safety concerns have intensified in Ogun State after a catastrophic gas explosion on the Abeokuta-Sagamu Interchange Expressway claimed 16 lives.
The tragedy has prompted Governor Dapo Abiodun to issue a strong warning to commercial drivers against transporting flammable materials in their vehicles.
The deadly incident occurred near the Muhammadu Buhari Estate when a white Mazda bus, bearing registration number KJA949YJ, caught fire after a gas cylinder onboard exploded.
The fire engulfed the vehicle, resulting in multiple fatalities and raising alarm over the risks posed by improper handling of hazardous substances.
In a statement released in Abeokuta on Tuesday evening, Governor Abiodun’s Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, underscored the preventable nature of the accident.
The governor stressed the urgent need for commercial transporters to strictly adhere to safety protocols when dealing with combustible materials such as gas and petroleum products.
The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) have been urged to prioritise safety education for their members.
Governor Abiodun called on both unions to intensify public awareness campaigns highlighting the dangers of transporting hazardous substances, reinforcing the importance of safety compliance.
Governor Abiodun extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, expressing sympathy for their loss. He also called on the general public to remain vigilant and report any unsafe transportation practices to relevant authorities to avert future disasters.
“This incident is a tragic reminder of the consequences of negligence in handling flammable materials. Ensuring public safety requires a collaborative effort from drivers, transport unions, and regulatory agencies. Immediate measures must be implemented to prevent such incidents from recurring,” he stated.
The governor reaffirmed that safeguarding lives on the roads remains a top priority for his administration, urging all stakeholders to enforce stringent safety regulations to protect passengers and road users alike.
