MINNA, NIGERIA – A catastrophic petrol tanker explosion has resulted in the confirmed deaths of at least 35 people in Niger State, leaving scores injured and plunging the state into mourning. The tragedy occurred at Essa village along the Bida-Agaie highway after a lone accident involving the articulated vehicle.
The incident unfolded on Tuesday afternoon when the tanker, reportedly conveying petroleum products from Lagos to a northern city, suffered a loss of control, skidded off the road, and overturned. Following the crash, a crowd of local residents descended on the scene to scoop the highly combustible spilled petrol. It was during this dangerous act that the contents ignited, engulfing the tanker and the surrounding area in a deadly inferno.
The Niger State Sector Commander for the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), A’isha Sa’adu, confirmed the casualty figures, noting that 35 persons died in the explosion. While one report stated 17 people were hospitalized, the FRSC confirmed that 46 others sustained varying degrees of injuries and were evacuated to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Bida, and other nearby hospitals for urgent medical attention. Three motorcycles were also consumed by the fire.
Governor Bago Expresses Condolences and Concern
Governor Mohammed Umaru-Bago of Niger State extended his condolences to the affected families, describing the accident in a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, as “worrisome, unfortunate, and pathetic.”
The Governor used the tragedy to issue a stern warning to the public against the hazardous practice of scooping fuel from fallen tankers, a dangerous trend that has claimed countless lives across Nigeria.
He expressed profound concern that people continue to ignore repeated warnings, stating: “It is disheartening, how people continue to approach fallen tankers to scoop fuel despite the dangers involved. I urge everyone to value their lives no matter the situation.”
The Governor assured that the state government is providing necessary support to the victims and their families and commended emergency responders for their prompt intervention.
