A petrol tanker explosion in Majia town, Taura Local Government Area, has claimed the lives of 95 people, while over 50 others have been left injured.
The incident, which took place in the early hours of Wednesday, October 11, 2023, saw locals scrambling to collect fuel from the overturned tanker before a devastating fire erupted, consuming those at the scene.
Governor Umar Namadi, deeply shaken by the tragedy, made a visit to the site of the explosion to offer his condolences and support to the grieving families and survivors.
Accompanied by senior government officials, the governor arrived at the scene on Wednesday morning after leaving Government House Dutse at 10:00 a.m.
His visit was marked by prayers for the souls of the deceased, asking for Almighty Allah’s mercy and for their eternal rest in Jannatul Firdaus.
During his visit, Governor Namadi pledged that the state government would fully cover the medical expenses of all the injured victims.
He further assured the public that the government would put measures in place to ensure that the families of the deceased and the injured survivors receive the support they need to cope with the aftermath of this heartbreaking disaster.
“This is a time of great loss for our state, and we will do all in our power to provide assistance and prevent such tragedies in the future,” the governor said.
The explosion occurred around 12:30 a.m., when a petrol tanker, en route from Port Harcourt to Nguru in Yobe State, lost control and overturned in Majia village.
According to the Jigawa State Police Command, fuel from the fallen tanker spilled into nearby drainages, attracting villagers who rushed to scoop the fuel.
Unfortunately, the tanker ignited, resulting in a massive explosion that claimed numerous lives and left many others with severe injuries.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Lawan Shishu Adam, confirmed the devastating toll of the incident. “As a result, 95 people were confirmed dead, and 50 others have been hospitalized and are currently receiving treatment,” he said.
He added that the incident is a tragic reminder of the dangers of approaching fuel tankers involved in accidents, urging people to exercise caution in the future to avoid similar incidents.
