OSR Mourns Oluku Fire Victims, Urges Edo Government To Enforce Tanker Safety
Hon. Osazee Richard (OSR), the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for Oredo Federal Constituency, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic tanker fire incident at Oluku Community in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, calling for urgent measures to prevent similar disasters.
The incident, which reportedly involved a diesel tanker that collapsed on a major road, resulted in the loss of lives and the destruction of properties worth millions of naira.
In a statement issued following the incident, OSR extended his condolences to the bereaved families, affected residents and the entire Oluku community, describing the tragedy as a painful reminder of the dangers associated with the movement of heavy-duty petroleum tankers through densely populated areas.
He said the incident was particularly distressing because of the devastating consequences for families and businesses, stressing the need for stronger safety regulations and effective enforcement to protect lives and property.
The ADC candidate urged the Edo State Government to work with relevant transport and traffic management agencies to review the movement of fuel tankers across the state, particularly along busy roads, market corridors and residential communities.
He proposed the designation and enforcement of specific routes for heavy-duty petroleum tankers, alongside restrictions on their movement during peak traffic periods in densely populated areas.
OSR also called for stricter compliance with vehicle roadworthiness standards, regular tanker inspections, the installation of appropriate fire safety equipment and anti-spill devices, and measures to prevent overloading.
He advocated stronger collaboration among the Federal Road Safety Corps, the Nigeria Police Force and relevant state traffic authorities to ensure compliance, adding that operators who violate safety regulations should face appropriate penalties.
Beyond preventive measures, the politician called for the establishment of a more effective emergency response system capable of responding promptly to tanker accidents, fires and other disasters.
He proposed a coordinated response framework involving the Edo State Fire Service, emergency medical personnel and disaster management agencies, supported by a dedicated emergency hotline and strategically positioned response teams.
According to him, a well-coordinated emergency response system would help contain fires quickly, reduce casualties and limit damage to property when accidents occur.
OSR further called on the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the Oluku incident to establish its immediate and underlying causes and ensure that anyone found responsible for negligence or regulatory breaches is held accountable.
He emphasised that public safety should remain a priority for the government and relevant regulatory agencies, noting that residents should not have to live under the constant threat of preventable disasters.
The ADC candidate also appealed to residents of Oluku to remain calm and cooperate with emergency responders and security agencies as efforts to manage the aftermath of the incident continue.
He assured the affected community of his concern for their welfare and pledged to follow up on the situation, while reiterating the need for practical measures to safeguard communities across Edo State.
OSR's intervention adds to calls for improved road safety enforcement, effective emergency services and stricter oversight of the transportation of petroleum products, particularly along routes that pass through residential and commercial areas.
