Tragedy in Niger State: Dozens Killed in Nigeria Fuel Tanker Explosion
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At least 39 people have died and 60 others injured in a fuel tanker explosion in Niger State, Nigeria, after villagers rushed to scoop leaking petrol.
Deadly Explosion in Niger State
A catastrophic fuel tanker explosion in Nigeria’s central Niger state has killed at least 39 people, according to state emergency officials. The incident happened near Essan and Badeggi communities along the Bida-Agaie road in Katcha Local Government Area.
The vehicle, transporting petroleum products from Lagos to northern Nigeria, reportedly skidded off the road and overturned, spilling large quantities of fuel. Moments later, a massive explosion engulfed villagers who had rushed to scoop the leaking petrol.
Dozens Injured and Burned Beyond Recognition
Abdullahi Baba Ara, head of the state emergency service, confirmed that 60 people sustained varying degrees of burns and are receiving treatment in nearby hospitals.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as flames consumed both people and vehicles around the crash site. “It was a horrific sight many victims were burned beyond recognition,” an aid worker told local media.
Authorities Condemn Dangerous Fuel Scooping
Mohammed Umaru Bago, Governor of Niger State, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, calling it “worrisome, unfortunate and pathetic.”
“It is disheartening how people have continued to approach a fallen tanker to scoop its contents despite several awareness campaigns,” said Bologi Ibrahim, the governor’s spokesperson.
Authorities have repeatedly warned communities against collecting spilled fuel, but such practices remain common, driven by poverty and lack of awareness.
Poor Road Conditions Blamed for Accident
Officials say the tanker crashed due to bad road conditions, a persistent issue on major highways in Nigeria. The country’s dilapidated road network has contributed to countless accidents, particularly involving fuel tankers.
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This latest tragedy highlights the urgent need for road rehabilitation and stricter enforcement of safety protocols for petroleum transportation.
A Recurring National Tragedy
Fuel tanker explosions are a recurring disaster in Nigeria.
In October last year, 153 people died in a similar incident in Jigawa state.
In January this year, 86 people were killed and nearly 70 injured after a petrol tanker overturned near Suleja, also in Niger state.
Despite these tragedies, communities often rush to scoop fuel from fallen tankers, turning accidents into deadly infernos.
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