President Bola Tinubu has directed Sen. George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), to lead a Federal Government delegation to Jigawa in response to Tuesday night inferno in Majiya, which claimed over 100 lives.
The government delegation comprises Mohammed Badaru, Minister of Defence and Sen. Saidu Alkali, Minister of Transportation.
Others are Mr Shehu Mohammed, Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and Abdullahi Yakasai, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North West).
While in Jigawa, the delegation will visit the scene of the incident to assess the situation and visit injured persons in the hospital, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser, Information and Strategy, said in a statement.
President Tinubu further directed that emergency aid, including medical supplies, food, and shelter, be extended to the 50 victims receiving treatment and others affected by the fire.
“The President, with a heavy heart, joins the Vice President in extending his deepest condolences to the families of the victims of this devastating incident.
“He expresses his heartfelt prayers and support to the government and people of Jigawa during this time of tragic loss and grief.
“He prays for divine comfort for the bereaved families and the peaceful repose for the souls of the departed,” said the statement.
Tinubu reassured the nation that the Federal Government, in collaboration with states, was committed to the swift and comprehensive review of fuel transportation safety protocols across the country.
He restated his directive to the FRSC to strengthen night travel measures, such as increased patrols, stricter enforcement of safety regulations and other highway safety mechanisms.
He said those found responsible for breaches of safety standards would be held accountable, reaffirming the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring such incidents do not recur.