The tragedy of today’s petrol tanker explosion in Niger State has now claimed the lives of at least 70 people.When the tanker overturned, people gathered to clean up the fuel that had spilled.
“The death toll stands at 70 so far,” Kumar Tsukwam, the head of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, in Niger State, told newsmen.
He located the accident location in the Suleja Local Government Area on Dikko-Maje Road, across from the Badeggi Fueling Station.
As previously reported by ireport247news, the tragedy claims many lives.
In addition to the several fatalities, it was stated that numerous people were injured and that the fire destroyed numerous homes and businesses.
According to a local witness who spoke to Vanguard, the tragedy happened when a truck carrying gasoline overturned, and another was sent in to collect the gasoline from the downed tanker.
Locals, primarily young people and a few women, hurried to the scene to collect the fuel from the accident tanker as the process of transferring it to the new truck was about to start.
“As the scooping continued, there was a loud explosion from the tanker, which immediately resulted in wild fire that engulfed the scoopers and the two vehicles.
“Those mostly trapped were the youths, who turned deaf ears to the calls from people around, of the dangers inherent in their action.
“And in the twinkle of an eye, many of them including women were trapped and roasted beyond recognition,” the eye witness declared.
According to recent information, many people within the area had to flee the scene as they could not render any assistance, as there was no immediate response from the fire service men to stop the spread.
In Niger State, Mr. Kumar Tsukwan, the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Commission, verified the claim when contacted.
As to his statement, “I am currently putting together my report after receiving the incident report, and I will provide you with more information later.”
Mohammed Umaru Bago, the governor of Niger State, stated his horror at the tanker explosion in the meantime.
In a statement, the governor called the occurrence “worrisome, heartbreaking, and unfortunate” and cited Bologi Ibrahim as his chief press secretary.
As he urged the Security Agents to ensure security in the area and directed all relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to do what is necessary, the Governor also expressed his sympathy for the families of the explosion victims and the resting place of the deceased. He also cautioned the people to always be responsible and prioritize their safety.