Peter Obi Reacts To Rivers Explosion, Delta Tanker Accident, Niger Boat Mishap

The 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Peter Obi, has described the series of incidents in the country as saddening and of grave concern.

Obi was reacting to the death of 35 persons in an explosion in an illegal oil refining site in Rivers State, the death of 30 people in a tanker explosion in Delta State, and the death of 22 persons in a boat mishap in Niger State.

In a post via his X handle on Wednesday, Obi said these unfortunate incidents have claimed many precious lives of Nigerians, stating that the deaths are unfortunate.

He said the tragic incidents are very depressing considering that these are not merely just numbers, but human beings, who will forever be missed by their grieving families.

Obi prayed for the repose of the dead and commiserated with the families of those who have died in these mishaps and pray to God to grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.

He wrote: “The series of mishaps that occurred in the country lately are saddening and of grave concern. These unfortunate incidents have claimed many precious lives of our brothers and sisters, within the past few days.

“Reports show that about 35 persons were reportedly killed in an explosion in an illegal oil refining site in Ibas Community, Emuoha Local Government Area of Rivers State on Sunday night.

“And over 30 other people, according to reports, lost their lives following a tanker explosion at Koko junction along Warri – Benin Highway in Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State on Sunday night.

“Also on Monday, a boat conveying 22 passengers from Kasabu village in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State to Yauri, Kebbi State, capsized.

“These tragic incidents are very depressing when you consider that these are not merely just numbers, but human beings, who will forever be missed by their grieving families.

”It becomes even more devastating when you understand that many of the victims of the fuel tanker explosion were perhaps, driven by hunger and the present hardship in the country, resulting from bad governance. Out of economic desperation, people have taken to unthinkable fatal risks.

“I strongly urge Nigerians to avoid such deadly ventures. We must, even on an individual basis, prioritize the safety of our lives and property, and ensure that we do not put ourselves in harm’s way.

“We all need to be alive to build and live in the New Nigeria we look forward to.

“I sincerely commiserate with all the families who lost their loved ones to these tragic incidents and pray to God to grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.

“May God grant eternal rest to the dead.”