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VENO tv | FEATURE BEFORE SCOOPING FUEL FROM A FALLEN TANKER, WRITE YOUR WILL
Date: 16-10-26

By Kayode Adoide

The recurring tragedy of fuel tanker explosions in Nigeria has become a disturbing national concern. Whenever a petroleum tanker overturns on a highway, rather than fleeing from danger, some Nigerians rush to the scene with buckets, jerrycans and other containers to scoop the spilled fuel, ignoring the possibility of a deadly explosion.
This dangerous practice has continued to claim precious lives, leaving families in mourning and communities devastated.

One cannot discuss this ugly development without examining the biting poverty, hunger, unemployment and economic hardship confronting millions of Nigerians. For some desperate citizens, spilled petroleum represents an opportunity to make quick money or obtain fuel without paying for it.
Unfortunately, what appears to be a golden opportunity can become a journey to an early grave.

The recently reported tanker fire incident in Benin City, Edo State, has once again brought this dangerous practice into focus. According to reports surrounding the incident, residents reportedly rushed towards an overturned tanker to scoop fuel before fire broke out, leaving people injured and raising fears of fatalities.
The exact number of casualties had not been independently confirmed at the time of preparing this report.

Poverty Is Real, But Life Is Priceless
While nobody can deny the economic hardship confronting Nigerians, poverty should never become an excuse for gambling with human lives.
Petroleum products are highly flammable. A single spark, naked flame or other ignition source can turn a scene of apparent opportunity into a deadly inferno.

Sadly, despite repeated warnings and previous tragedies, the dangerous rush to scoop fuel from fallen tankers continues.
The Federal Government, relevant emergency agencies and state authorities must intensify public enlightenment campaigns, improve road safety and strengthen emergency responses to tanker accidents.
Petroleum transport operators must also ensure that their vehicles are properly maintained and that drivers comply with safety regulations.
However, the greatest responsibility rests with individuals who must understand that no quantity of free fuel is worth dying for.

Before You Scoop Fuel, Write Your Will!

My message to those who rush towards fallen tankers is simple:
If you are determined to scoop fuel from a fallen tanker despite knowing the danger involved, perhaps you should first write your will.
This is not a wish for anyone's death. Rather, it is a strong warning intended to awaken our collective conscience.
Think about your wife, husband, children, parents and loved ones before risking your life for a few litres of petroleum.
What profit is there in gaining a container of fuel and losing your life?

The Bible asks in Mark 8:36:
“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”
Nigeria must address the poverty and desperation that contribute to these avoidable tragedies. At the same time, citizens must recognise that survival requires wisdom, discipline and respect for danger.
When a tanker falls, run for safety, not towards the fuel. Alert emergency responders and keep others away from the scene.

A word is enough for the wise.
VENO tv — Giving Voice to the People

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