By Erewunmi Peace

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has revealed that 411 Nigerians lost their lives in 2024 while attempting to scoop fuel from fallen tankers across the country.

The alarming figure was disclosed by the FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, during the “Operation Zero Tolerance” campaign briefing in Abuja, and reiterated at a town hall meeting in Makurdi by Benue Sector Commander Steve Ayodele.

According to the Corps Marshal, these incidents accounted for 7.6% of all road traffic fatalities recorded in 2024, underscoring the deadly consequences of such risky behavior.

“Scooping fuel from fallen tankers is a highly dangerous and illegal act that continues to claim innocent lives. We are intensifying our public awareness campaigns and enforcement operations to prevent these tragedies,” Mohammed stated.

Why People Risk Their Lives

Fuel scooping typically occurs after tanker accidents, with locals rushing to collect spilled fuel for personal use or sale. However, this practice often leads to fatal explosions, severe burns, and destruction of property.

Major Tragedies in 2024

Some of the worst disasters occurred in Jigawa State and other northern regions, where tanker explosions killed scores of people who had gathered to scoop fuel.

FRSC’s Call to Action

The FRSC is urging Nigerians to stay away from fallen tankers, warning that offenders will face prosecution. The agency also called on community leaders, transport unions, and the media to help raise awareness about the life-threatening dangers of fuel scooping.

With 411 lives lost in one year alone, authorities warn that the culture of fuel scooping must end to prevent further avoidable deaths.