Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic tanker explosion that claimed at least 30 lives and left around 40 others injured along the Bida–Agaie Road in Katcha Local Government Area of Niger State.
In a statement issued Tuesday, Obi extended condolences to the bereaved families, affected communities, and the government of Niger State, describing the incident as a painful reminder of the harsh realities many Nigerians face daily.
“It is both sad and painful that poverty continues to drive our people into situations where they must dangerously risk their lives to survive,” Obi said. “Even more heartbreaking is that tragedies like this occur almost daily across our nation.”
He criticized what he described as a growing indifference from authorities toward the frequent loss of lives, urging leaders to demonstrate greater empathy, compassion, and responsibility.
Obi emphasized the need for a national commitment to human dignity, calling for policies that prioritize safety, welfare, and inclusive development. “These recurring tragedies should awaken us to our collective responsibility to build a Nigeria where no one has to die simply trying to live,” he added.
The explosion, which occurred Monday, is one of the deadliest in recent months and has reignited calls for improved road safety, emergency response infrastructure, and poverty alleviation measures.
