Explosions on Nigerian roads have become increasingly deadly. A recent explosion on the Abuja-Keffi Expressway is a prime example. On Wednesday evening, a cement truck lost control and exploded after colliding with several stationary vehicles. The blast caused a massive cloud of black smoke. Motorists scrambled to safety as survivors reported that many people were trapped in their burning cars. The truck driver was reportedly speeding when the accident occurred. Federal Capital Territory police confirmed that six people died in the incident.

A Long History of Explosive Incidents

This explosion is not an isolated case. Over the years, explosions on Nigerian roads have caused hundreds of fatalities. From January 2009 to October 2024, 169 explosions claimed the lives of 1,613 people. In 2019 alone, 29 explosions resulted in 203 deaths. However, this figure was surpassed in 2024. In September, 61 people died in Niger State. The following month, 150 died in Jigawa State. These tragic events highlight the urgent need for better safety measures.

The Reckless Driving Culture

Reckless driving by some truck drivers plays a significant role in these accidents. Many drivers speed excessively, often under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This reckless behavior endangers the lives of other motorists. They also tend to bully other drivers, further increasing the risk. Without strict enforcement of safety rules, these dangerous drivers continue to operate freely. Countries around the world, such as the United States, breathalyse truck drivers to prevent alcohol-related accidents. Nigeria should adopt similar measures to reduce the risk of impaired driving.

Explosions from Gas and Fuel Tankers

Explosions involving gas and fuel tankers have also been a major issue. On March 11, a gas tanker overturned on the Otedola Bridge section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. The tanker caught fire, killing two people and injuring three others. In addition, 12 vehicles and several roadside structures were destroyed. The driver lost control of the tanker due to a brake failure. Later, authorities discovered that the driver ignored a “No Truck Allowed” sign. Such reckless actions must be punished to prevent future accidents.

Systemic Issues in Petroleum Transport

The frequent tanker explosions stem from serious problems within Nigeria’s petroleum transport system. Many depots and pipelines are not functioning properly, forcing petroleum products to be transported by road. This method is extremely dangerous, especially since many trucks are old and poorly maintained. Some trucks are also overloaded to increase profits, which makes them more unstable. In March 2024, the government banned 60,000-liter trucks in an effort to curb these accidents. However, enforcing this ban remains a challenge.

A Need for Stricter Regulations and Enforcement

To prevent these explosions, Nigeria must introduce and enforce stricter safety regulations. Drivers should be banned from operating hazardous trucks during peak traffic hours. Furthermore, the country’s rail system should be revived to reduce the reliance on road transport. This would make the transportation of petroleum products safer and more efficient.

Adopting Modern Technology

Modern technology can play a crucial role in preventing explosions. CCTV cameras should be used to monitor truck traffic and ensure compliance with safety rules. Temperature sensors on tankers could help detect overheating, a key factor in many explosions. Additionally, well-trained firefighters and road safety officials should be deployed strategically to manage and mitigate tanker fires.

International Comparison and the Need for Immediate Action

Other countries, such as the United Kingdom, have implemented strict safety regulations for transporting hazardous materials. These regulations have made tanker explosions rare. The last major tanker explosion in Europe occurred in Borgo Panigale, Italy, in 2018, claiming two lives and injuring 145 others. In contrast, Nigeria suffers frequent explosions, many involving old, poorly maintained trucks.

Urgency for Reform

Nigeria’s road safety situation is worsening. The government must act swiftly to enforce existing regulations and introduce new ones. These explosions cannot be viewed as inevitable tragedies. They can be prevented with strict safety measures and more efficient enforcement. By taking immediate action, the government can protect citizens and reduce the occurrence of tanker explosions on Nigerian roads.