Peter Obi Urges Government to
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, has called on the Nigerian federal government to prioritize the improvement of existing road infrastructure rather than focusing on building new ones. His plea follows the tragic tanker explosion on the Ilorin-Jebba expressway in Kwara State on Friday, which resulted in the deaths of over 60 people.
The explosion occurred after a tanker carrying 33,000 liters of petrol collided with a truck loaded with fertilizer, causing a fuel spill that ignited a fire. The incident highlights the dangers associated with poor road conditions, with Obi emphasizing that most road accidents are linked to the deteriorating state of infrastructure across the country.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Obi stated: “The tragic collision on February 28, 2025, along the Ilorin-Jebba expressway in Kwara State, which claimed over 60 lives, is a heartbreaking reminder of the urgent need to prioritize the reconstruction of existing road infrastructure across the country, improve road safety, and regulate the transportation of hazardous materials, rather than embarking on new road infrastructure that might never be completed.”
Obi pointed out that the frequent occurrence of road traffic accidents, particularly those caused by the poor state of roads, demands swift and effective government action to prevent further casualties. He also shared personal experiences from his travels, mentioning a recent visit to Suleja, where over 100 people were burned alive due to inadequate road conditions. He also recounted spending over three and a half hours navigating hazardous roads on his way to Kafanchan, which further underscored the urgent need for infrastructure improvements.
In his post, Obi extended his condolences to the victims’ families, urging the Nigerian government and citizens to unite in efforts to create safer roads. He wrote, “As we mourn this loss, I extend my condolences to the families and the good people of Kwara State. May God Almighty grant eternal rest to the departed and provide strength and comfort to their grieving loved ones. Through collective responsibility and unwavering commitment, we can prevent further senseless tragedies and work toward building a safer, more secure nation for everyone.”
