A devastating fuel tanker explosion in Niger State, northern Nigeria, has tragically claimed the lives of 86 people, with dozens more sustaining severe injuries.
The incident occurred early Saturday morning near Suleja when individuals attempted to illegally transfer gasoline from one tanker to another using a generator.
The explosion resulted in a massive fire that engulfed both tankers and nearby shops, leaving many victims unrecognizable.
Ibrahim Audu Husseini, spokesperson for the National Emergency Management Agency in Niger State, confirmed the grim death toll, stating that the burial process extended over 14 hours due to logistical challenges in excavating the mass grave.
Kumar Tsukwam, a sector commander for the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), attributed the tragedy to individuals rushing to collect spilled fuel from the overturned tanker, leading to the catastrophic explosion.
Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as “worrisome, heartbreaking, and unfortunate.”
This tragic event underscores the significant risks associated with illegal fuel handling and highlights the urgent need for improved safety measures and stricter enforcement of regulations to prevent such devastating incidents.
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