NSCDC recommends night movement for trucks to reduce patrol tanker explosion

FRANCIS Nnadi, Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Ebonyi State, has called on Federal and State Governments to impose a ban on the daytime movement of inflammable products by patrol tankers to prevent frequent explosions.

Nnadi emphasised that Nigeria had lost many lives due to patrol tanker explosions and stated that the Government must take decisive action to address this issue. He voiced his concerns during a visit of members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ebonyi State chapter, at his office in Abakaliki.

He noted that climate change had significantly impacted various factors, including the transportation of inflammable products. He urged other Security Agencies in the Country to collaborate in order to eliminate the recurring incidents of gas explosions.

“Two or three weeks ago, if you can recall, a tragic incident occurred in Niger State that went viral, resulting in the loss of over 100 lives. Just last week in Ogun State, a similar incident happened. Furthermore, just the day before yesterday, I learned of another incident while coming back from Awka. Upon my return, I alerted the state government, saying I would engage other security agencies,” Nnadi stated. He outlined the need for cooperation with road safety officials, the police, the NSCDC—who are first responders in disaster management—and the Nigerian Army, responsible for border security.

“We need to come together and discuss road safety. The movement of tankers during the daytime is not beneficial for us. The Ebonyi State government can implement a rule stating that no tankers are allowed on the roads during the day. They should only operate at night when traffic is lighter. Once it is 6 a.m., they should park wherever they are. The changing climate has affected many aspects of life.”

Nnadi explained the dangers of transporting inflammable materials during the day, noting, “At the slightest touch, these materials can ignite, and only God knows what could happen. Just like the gas plant I sealed, which contained over 2.8 tons of gas, people were cooking beside it, and children were playing around. That is a serious risk. While PMS (petrol) is inflammable, LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) is highly inflammable and can spread rapidly.”

He further urged that “we must stop these tankers loaded with inflammable materials from operating during the day when roads are congested. We can recommend this rule to the government, and we can enforce it. All filling station owners and gas suppliers should ensure that their products are moved when the roads are safe. During the daytime, anything can happen.”