Iyanda Ahmed@Ahmed

Gasoline prices in Nigeria have undoubtedly increased since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration removed subsidies on the product more than a year ago, in an attempt to channel resources into more developmental purposes. However, this policy has also caused significant hardship.

Scooping gasoline from a fallen tanker is a common practice in Nigeria, as many see it as an opportunity to get free fuel that they could either use or resell for a profit. However, what people fail to understand is that the small amount of fuel they can scoop, or the potential profit they might make, can lead to harm or even cost them their lives.

January 18th, 2025, will go down in history as the day more than 86 Nigerians lost their lives due to a catastrophic tanker explosion in Suleja, Niger State.

This devastating incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with fuel tanker accidents. Crowds of bystanders, photographers, and people attempting to scoop fuel contributed to the high casualty count.

This article aims to educate the public on what to do when faced with similar situations, to avoid such tragedies in the future.

Why Are Fuel Tanker Accidents So Dangerous?

• Explosion Risks:
  Fuel is highly flammable, and sparks can easily ignite gasoline. A simple action like trying to transfer the fuel or using a generator can trigger a deadly explosion, as seen in Suleja

• Toxic Fumes:
  Gasoline fumes are toxic, and inhaling them can cause serious health issues such as dizziness, headaches, nausea, and even unconsciousness.

• Panic and Injury Risk:
  When large crowds gather in a rush, to flee the scene or collect fuel, there is a high risk of accidents. People can be crushed, injured, or even killed in the resulting chaos.
• Long-Term Consequences:
  Even if people survive the immediate aftermath of the explosion, they may suffer severe burns, respiratory damage, or injuries that can change their lives forever.

What To Do If You Encounter a Fallen Tanker or Fuel Spill

Stay Away from the Scene: Always maintain a safe distance (at least 100 meters or more). The danger of fire or explosion is extremely high. Do not approach the site, even out of curiosity or for the chance to collect fuel.

Alert the Authorities: Call emergency services immediately. Report the exact location and the situation so that the proper safety teams can respond. Below, you will find emergency contact details that are essential to have on hand.

Warn Others to Stay Away: Spread the word to nearby residents, passersby, and even fellow motorists to prevent them from coming close to the scene.

Avoid Actions That Could Cause a Spark: Do not use any electronic devices (e.g., phones, cameras), and avoid starting a vehicle engine or operating machinery near the site. If you have a generator, do not run it anywhere near the scene. The smallest spark can cause an explosion.

Evacuate if Necessary: If you live near the spill, evacuate to a safe location and avoid returning until authorities have deemed the area secure.

How Authorities and Communities Can Help Prevent These Tragedies

1. Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate the public on the dangers of fuel scooping through social media, radio, and other community outreach methods. People need to understand the catastrophic consequences of their actions.
    
2. Rapid Response Protocols: Local authorities should ensure that emergency teams are equipped to respond quickly, secure accident sites, and prevent crowds from gathering.
    
3. Enforce the Law: Stricter penalties for those caught scooping fuel or interfering with emergency responders could deter others from attempting such dangerous actions.
4. Emergency Contact Details

When accidents occur, it’s crucial to have the correct emergency contacts readily available. Here are some important numbers and resources to keep in mind:

1. Fire Service

Emergency Helpline: 112

Website: https://fedfire.gov.ng/
The fire department is the first line of defence in case of explosions or fires resulting from incidents like a tanker accident.

1. National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)

            Emergency Helpline: +234 80022556362

            Website: www.nema.gov.ng
 NEMA is responsible for coordinating disaster management in Nigeria, and they can provide guidance and support in emergencies.

1. Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)

Emergency Helpline: 122

Website: www.frsc.gov.ng
FRSC is responsible for road safety and can assist in the event of road accidents or spills, providing traffic control and safety measures.

1. Police

Emergency Helpline: 199 (National Police Emergency Response)

Website: www.npf.gov.ng
In case of accidents or threats to public safety, it’s important to contact the police for immediate intervention and coordination.

Remember: Safety First

The Suleja explosion was a heartbreaking event that could have been avoided if safety protocols were followed. The loss of lives underscores the importance of educating the public about the dangers of fuel tanker accidents and the need to prioritise safety.

Share this information with your community. By staying informed, you can help prevent tragedies like this from happening again.