By: Felix Ikpotor
Following the tanker fire incident that occurred last Friday at the Eleme axis of the East-West Road in Rivers State which claimed five lives with over seventy vehicles burnt, the Ogoni Youth Federation OYF, is now blaming the contractor handling the road, Reynolds Construction Company (RCC), for alleged negligence.
The youths’ body is also holding the Federal Government accountable for allowing RCC to undertake such a crucial project without ensuring adequate safety measures in place.
The Ogoni youths in a statement signed by the President- General of OYF, Dr. Legborsi Yamaabana urged the government and contractor to take responsibility for the incident and compensate families of the victims or face action at the International Criminal Court, ICC.
The statement said, “Ogoni youths are utterly dismayed by the catastrophic explosion of a tanker laden with petroleum products on the Ogoni axis of the East-West Road. This devastating incident has resulted in the loss of numerous lives and the destruction of properties worth billions of Naira. The explosion was caused by the absence of a detour, exacerbated by the dilapidated state of the road.
“While we mourn with those who are grieving, we must also address the root cause of this avoidable disaster. The negligence and incompetence displayed by Reynolds Construction Company (RCC), the contractor handling the road project, are utterly reprehensible. It is unacceptable that RCC failed to create alternative detours before commencing construction, despite being fully aware of the heavy traffic flow along this critical artery. We strongly condemn RCC for prioritization profits over the safety and well-being of the people”.
It is unconscionable that RCC would engage in practices here in Nigeria that they would never dare to attempt in their home country of Israel. This blatant disregard for basic safety measures has resulted in the loss of innocent lives and extensive damage to property”.
OYF added: “Furthermore, we hold the Federal Government accountable for allowing RCC to undertake such a crucial project without ensuring that adequate safety measures were in place. The government’s failure to oversee and enforce proper protocols has contributed to this tragedy and cannot be overlooked.
“We demand that RCC and the Federal Government take immediate responsibility for their negligence and provide full compensation to the families of the victims. Anything less would be an insult to the memory of those who have perished and a gross injustice to those who continue to suffer as a result of this catastrophe. Should RCC and the Federal Government fail to act swiftly and decisively, we will not hesitate to pursue legal action and seek justice through international channels, including the International Criminal Court (ICC), to ensure accountability for their actions. We will not rest until justice is served and our people are safe and secure”.
