Former Vice President of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Wazirin Adamawa, has sounded a powerful warning to Nigerians, urging them to refrain from the dangerous practice of scooping fuel from fallen petroleum tankers. In a heartfelt message shared on his official X handle, Atiku expressed deep concern over the increasing loss of lives due to reckless attempts to collect spilled fuel.
Acknowledging the harsh economic realities Nigerians are facing, worsened by what he described as the “trial-and-error policies” of the current administration, Atiku made it clear that no amount of hardship justifies risking one’s life for a few liters of fuel. “I know that the times are tough for Nigerians,” he said. “It has even been made more challenging by the trial-and-error policies of this bumbling administration. However, your lives are the most precious things that should never be mortgaged.”
Atiku’s warning comes in the wake of another tragic incident in Cross River State, where individuals lost their lives while attempting to scoop petrol from a tanker involved in an accident. He called for a coordinated effort by government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to launch an aggressive campaign aimed at educating the public on the severe dangers of such practices.
“Scooping petrol, a highly flammable liquid, from a fallen tanker is a suicide mission 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,” he emphasized.
Atiku’s appeal resonates deeply as fuel tanker accidents have long been a cause of devastating loss of life in Nigeria, particularly in rural communities where safety awareness is often low. He urged the government to take immediate steps to safeguard the lives of citizens by providing adequate education on the risks associated with handling hazardous materials like petrol.
In his closing remarks, Atiku reminded Nigerians that their lives hold immeasurable value, both to themselves and their loved ones, and should never be gambled with for any reason. “Your lives matter, and no amount of fuel can replace the preciousness of human life,” he concluded.
Atiku’s impassioned plea serves as a sobering reminder that safety must always come first, especially in these trying times.
PIONEER NEWS 