Agbor Tanker Fire: Sen. Nwoko Commiserates With Victims’ Family, Call For Ban On Daytime Movement Of Heavy-duty Vehicles

The Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, has expressed deep sympathy with the families, businesses, and communities affected by the devastating petrol tanker explosion in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The tragic incident, which occurred on Sunday along the Old Asaba-Lagos road, resulted in the loss of five lives, the destruction of several buildings—including an Anglican Church—and extensive damage to vehicles and businesses, including First Bank and Access Bank.

Speaking on the incident, Senator Nwoko described the loss of lives and livelihoods as a heavy blow, especially to the people of Delta North. “This is a tragic event that has left families grieving and businesses shattered. My thoughts are with all those affected by this unfortunate disaster,” he said.

He reiterated the urgent need for stricter regulations governing the movement of heavy-duty vehicles, particularly those transporting hazardous materials. He called for concerted efforts to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Recall that in May 2024, Senator Nwoko proposed a motion titled, “Compelling Need to Enforce Nationwide Ban on Movement of Heavy-Duty Vehicles in Daytime.”

He urged the Federal Ministry of Transportation to collaborate with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to enforce a nationwide ban on daytime movement of heavy-duty vehicles.

He proposed that such vehicles should only operate between the hours of 12 midnight and 6 am to reduce the risks of accidents during peak traffic hours.

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The Senator also urged the Federal Ministries of Works and Housing, Transportation, and the FRSC to work together to establish service stations near high-traffic border towns.

These service stations, he explained, would serve as resting areas for tankers and heavy-duty vehicles before they embark on their journeys at midnight, minimizing congestion and the potential for accidents.