Tolu Meduna

By Tolu Meduna

The tragic scenes of men, women—some pregnant, others with babies on their backs—and children burnt to death while attempting to scoop fuel from accident sites expose a deep-seated crisis. It is a reality that goes beyond greed; it reflects our society’s changing values, economic struggles, and behavioural psychology.

Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), has raised concerns about the erosion of empathy and duty of care—both key components of the 7 for 7 National Values Charter. In the past, when accidents occurred, communities instinctively prioritised rescuing victims over profiting from their misfortune. Today, however, the rush to scoop fuel from a fallen tanker has become a deadly norm.

Following multiple tanker accidents, the President directed NOA to embark on a nationwide sensitisation campaign. The agency swiftly activated its 812 offices across the country, aiming to reverse this dangerous trend. Yet, the haunting images persist: lives lost over a few litres of petrol or diesel, a horrifying testament to how desperation, behavioural economics, and social influence can override self-preservation.

But what drives people to such reckless actions? The answer lies in behavioural economics, social psychology, and environmental factors.

The Psychology of Risk and Herd Mentality

When large groups rush to collect spilled fuel, individuals experience a diffusion of responsibility, assuming that if others are doing it, it must be safe. Social proof reinforces the behaviour—people believe that since many are participating, the risk must be minimal.

The Neuroscience of Scarcity

Scarcity alters brain function, making immediate rewards (a bottle of fuel) seem more important than long-term consequences (burns, explosions, death). A scarcity mindset creates tunnel vision, prioritising short-term survival over rational decision-making.

Energy Crisis and Economic Desperation

The overwhelming dependence on fossil fuels, combined with poor energy infrastructure, means that fuel scarcity directly impacts daily survival. In many communities, access to alternative energy sources is limited, making the temptation to scoop fuel irresistible despite the dangers.

This crisis is not merely about greed but a complex interplay of desperation, economic inequality, psychological biases, and social conditioning. The solution requires more than just warnings; it demands a cultural reorientation, economic reforms, and sustainable energy policies. Until then, the devastating cycle of lives lost for a few litres of fuel will tragically continue.

*Tolu Meduna,Public Engagement Executive Office of the Director General
National Orientation Agency