The tragic explosion involving a commercial vehicle in Ogun State has prompted Governor Dapo Abiodun to issue a stern warning to commercial drivers about the dangers of transporting flammable materials. The explosion occurred on Tuesday when a Mazda bus, carrying a filled gas cylinder, went off at Muhammadu Buhari Estate along the Abeokuta-Sagamu Expressway. The incident resulted in the deaths of 16 people, with three others suffering severe injuries, while two individuals were unhurt.
Governor Abiodun described the accident as preventable and emphasized the importance of adhering to proper safety protocols when transporting hazardous materials like gas and petroleum products. In a statement, the governor called for increased education and awareness efforts from transport unions such as the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN). He urged these organizations to ensure their members understand the dangers associated with carrying flammable substances.
The governor stressed that passenger safety must always be the priority and that all stakeholders, including drivers, unions, and regulatory bodies, must work together to prevent similar tragedies. Abiodun also offered his condolences to the families of the victims, offering prayers for comfort and strength during their time of loss.
This tragic incident highlights the critical need for stringent safety measures and awareness in the transportation of hazardous goods, especially in densely populated and high-traffic areas.