A devastating petrol tanker explosion claimed the lives of over 50 people on Saturday along the Dikko-Maje Road in the Suleja Local Government Area of Niger State. The tragic incident also left many others injured as they attempted to scoop fuel from the spilled contents of the overturned tanker.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Commander in Niger State, Kumar Tsukwam, confirmed the details of the incident to reporters in Minna, the state capital.
Tsukwam explained that the tanker, which was fully loaded with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), fell on the road, spilling its contents. In a desperate attempt to collect the fuel, residents unknowingly exposed themselves to extreme danger.
“More than 50 people lost their lives in the tragic incident,” Tsukwam stated. He added that individuals who went to rescue the victims were also caught in the flames when the fuel ignited. Emergency responders, including the FRSC and other agencies, were on the ground conducting rescue and recovery efforts.
Abdullahi Baba-Arah, Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), provided further insight into the disaster. He revealed that the explosion occurred around 9 a.m. during an attempt to transfer the spilled PMS to another tanker.
Tragically, the fuel came into contact with a generator used in the transfer process, triggering a massive explosion.
Properties worth millions of Naira were destroyed, and the injured were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Search and recovery operations are ongoing, with support from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and local volunteers.
Baba-Arah urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with emergency responders.
The incident has drawn widespread reactions, including from Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, who expressed his deep shock and sorrow. His Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, conveyed the governor’s message of condolence to the victims’ families.
“The governor describes the explosion as worrisome, heartbreaking, and unfortunate,” Ibrahim said. He emphasized the need for residents to prioritize safety and avoid risky actions such as scooping fuel from accident scenes.
