In the wake of a devastating tanker fire incident, Dave Umahi, the Minister of Works, has issued a stern warning to drivers and road users about the dangers of substance abuse, particularly hard drugs, while operating vehicles.
The minister’s remarks came during his visit to the site of the recent tanker fire in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The tragic event claimed five lives and resulted in the destruction of over 70 vehicles on the Eleme stretch of the East-West Road.
Umahi attributed the cause of the accident to the reckless behavior often associated with individuals under the influence of hard drugs, specifically ‘Mkpurumiri’ (ice). He expressed his condolences to the Rivers State Government and the families of the victims.
He further clarified that the accident was not due to any negligence on the part of the Federal Government or the construction company involved in the bridge reconstruction at the site, contrary to some speculations. He criticized an individual claiming to be the president of the Ogoni Youth Federation for making careless and inciting statements blaming the contractor, Reynolds Construction Company (RCC), and the Federal Government.
According to the briefing he received, the accident was caused by two drivers competing for the right of way, leading to a collision between a trailer and a fuel tanker. Umahi suggested that the Road Safety (FRSC) should establish checkpoints to screen drivers for ‘Mkpurumiri’ and other hard drugs, as these substances can lead to reckless behavior.
While it remains unclear whether the drivers involved in the accident lost their lives, their actions resulted in the loss of lives and property of law-abiding citizens. Umahi urged all road users to abide by the law and refrain from drinking while driving to prevent such accidents.
