Gov Oborevwori Warns Residents Against Collecting Fuel From Overturned Tankers

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has once more emphasized his previous warning to citizens to abstain from the risky practice of collecting petroleum products from overturned tankers.

The Governor labeled such activities as potential catastrophes, warning inhabitants about the imminent danger, which could result in uncontrollable fires and needless fatalities.

Governor Oborevwori’s comments came in response to a solitary accident involving a petroleum tanker, with locals in Ibusa observed collecting petroleum from the overturned vehicle.

The statement was announced by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, on Wednesday in Asaba.

Unhappy with the situation, the Governor has instructed Mr. Innocent Eseweze, the Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, to collaborate with security and fire services to seal off the area and ensure the safety of the vehicle and road users.

The Governor recalled a recent major fire disaster on the Benin – Warri Highway at the Koko – Ugbenu junction, involving an overturned tanker, which resulted in multiple casualties due to residents attempting to collect fuel.

He, again urged all residents of Delta to refrain from the perilous act of collecting fuel from overturned tankers, reminding them of the disastrous Jesse fire incident of 1998 and other disasters resulting from similar actions.

He stressed that such actions are a disaster waiting to happen and pleaded with the public to avoid them for their own safety and the safety of their loved ones.

He said: “Just last Sunday, we had a major fire disaster at the Koko – Ugbenu junction on the Benin – Warri Highway, which involved a fallen tanker.

“We recorded several casualties because some residents of the area went there to scoop fuel for whatever reasons.

“I recall cautioning residents against such dangerous acts and here again, I saw it with my eyes along the Ogwashi-Ukwu/ Ibusa/Asaba Road.

“My dear Deltans, remember the Jesse fire incident of 1998 and several other disasters arising from scooping fuel from fallen tankers.

“While I have directed the Local Government Council Chairman and security agencies to take charge of the situation, I yet again appeal to all Deltans to desist from the very dangerous act of scooping fuel from tankers.

“It is a great disaster waiting to happen, please avoid it for the sake of your loved ones”.