Educate your members on dangers of conveying flammable substances — Abiodun charges Transport unions
…Mourns victims of Abeokuta-Sagamu expressway accident
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has urged transport unions in the state to educate their members on the dangers of conveying flammable substances, stressing the need for enhanced safety measures to prevent further tragedies.
The governor made this call in a statement issued in Abeokuta on Tuesday evening by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade. His remarks followed a tragic accident involving a commercial vehicle on the Abeokuta-Sagamu Interchange Expressway near the Muhammadu Buhari Estate.
The vehicle, a white Mazda bus with registration number KJA949YJ, was reportedly transporting a filled gas cylinder when it exploded, triggering a fire that claimed the lives of 16 individuals, according to reports.
Governor Abiodun described the incident as preventable and emphasised the urgent need for stricter handling and transportation protocols for highly flammable substances, including gas and petroleum products.
He highlighted the responsibility of the state’s major transport unions—the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN)—in ensuring the safety of both their members and the general public.
The governor called on these organisations to actively educate their members on the hazards associated with transporting dangerous materials. He stressed that fostering a culture of safety and responsibility among commercial drivers was crucial in averting similar disasters.
Extending his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, Governor Abiodun prayed for divine comfort and strength to help them cope with their irreplaceable losses.
He also underscored the importance of community vigilance and strict adherence to safety regulations to prevent future tragedies.
“This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers linked to the transportation of flammable materials. As we grapple with the aftermath of this tragedy, it is essential for all stakeholders—drivers, unions, and regulatory bodies—to work collaboratively to ensure that such incidents do not recur.
“The safety of passengers must remain paramount, and all necessary measures should be taken to protect lives on our roads. Only through collective efforts and a commitment to best practices can we minimise the risks associated with transporting dangerous goods,” the governor stated.
