A devastating tanker explosion in Agaie Local Government Area of Niger State has resulted in the deaths of over 30 people and the loss of more than 50 cattle. The tragic incident occurred early Sunday morning when a petrol tanker collided with a trailer truck carrying passengers and cattle from Wudil, Kano State, en route to Lagos.
The explosion took place around 12:30 am along the Lapai-Agaie road, approximately 2 kilometers from Dendo Community. The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) confirmed the incident in a statement released by its Director General, Abdullahi Baba-Arab.
According to the statement: “NSEMA has received a report of a deadly tanker explosion that occurred on Sunday, 8th September 2024, at about 12:30 am along Lapai-Agaie road, 2km from Dendo Community in Agaie LGA.
“The incident happened when a petrol tanker loaded with PMS collided with a trailer truck carrying travellers and cattle from Wudil, Kano State, heading to Lagos. Two other vehicles, a crane truck and a pickup van, were also involved in the incident.
“Over 30 people have already been confirmed dead, with more than 50 cattle burnt alive. NSEMA’s Rapid Response Team (RRT), in conjunction with LGEMCs, is still at the scene conducting search and rescue operations, as more bodies remain trapped inside the vehicles,” the statement read.
