A devastating tanker explosion has claimed the lives of over 30 people, leaving about 40 others injured in Essan and Badeggi communities along the Bida–Agaie road in Katcha Local Government Area of Niger State.
The tragic tanker explosion incident, which occurred around 11 a.m. on Tuesday, erupted after a tanker laden with petroleum products toppled and spilled its contents.
Eyewitnesses said scores of residents rushed to the scene to scoop fuel when the vehicle suddenly exploded, igniting a massive inferno that consumed dozens on the spot.
Hajiya Aishatu Sa’adu, Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Niger Command, confirmed the incident on Tuesday in Minna.
Sa’adu said that the tragedy occurred when some residents attempted to scoop fuel from the fallen tanker, which later exploded.
She said the injured victims were evacuated to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Bida, with the support of FRSC personnel, villagers, and some good Nigeria
According to her, preliminary investigations revealed that the crash was a lone accident resulting from loss of control by the tanker driver.
The sector commander cautioned motorists to exercise utmost care and adhere strictly to traffic regulations to avoid unnecessary loss of lives.
She also warned members of the public against scooping fuel from accident scenes, describing it as a dangerous act that had claimed many lives in the past.
“It is God that gives wealth. People should avoid greed and be content with what God has given them,” she added.
