By Ken Afor
Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, has expressed profound sadness and extended his deepest condolences to victims and families affected by a devastating tanker fire incident in the Ometan community in Okpe Local Government Area (LGA) of Delta State. The incident claimed seven lives on Friday.
The New Diplomat reports that Ometan community was thrown into pandemonium on Friday morning when an explosion occurred after the front part of an oil tanker detached from the rear compartment while trying to overtake another truck a few meters away from the boundary bridge between Uvwie and Okpe. The rear portion of the tanker exploded, and fire broke out at the scene.
Seven persons, including a three-year-old child and her mother, reportedly lost their lives, while buildings, vehicles, and heavy-duty trucks were destroyed due to the explosion.
In a statement released on Saturday, Dafinone expressed his thoughts and prayers for the grieving families who lost their loved ones, as well as those injured or displaced by the fire.
“The pain and anguish they must be experiencing are unimaginable, and my heart goes out to every one of them during this difficult time,” the Senator stated.
Dafinone, who is the Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance, commended the swift response of local emergency services in managing the crisis and providing aid to those impacted. However, he urged relevant agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the causes of the tragedy to prevent such incidents from reoccurring in the future.
“We must prioritize the safety and well-being of our communities and take proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with hazardous materials transportation,” Dafinone emphasized.
Dafinone who also serves as a Trustee of the Okpe Union, called on governments, individuals, and corporate bodies to support efforts in assisting the victims to rebuild their lives and recover from the devastating loss. “We stand in solidarity with the people of Ometan community, offering our support to bring assistance to those in need,” he added.
As the community mourns the lives lost in the tanker fire, the Senator extended his sympathies, stating, “May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace.”
