Tragic Tanker Explosion Claims Over 70 Lives on Abuja-Kaduna Expressway.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has mobilized an emergency rescue team to Dikko Junction along the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway in Niger State following a devastating tanker fire explosion that occurred on Saturday morning.
According to NEMA, at least 70 individuals have lost their lives, while 56 others sustained varying degrees of injury in the incident, which took place along the Dikko-Maje Road opposite Baddegi Station.
Reports indicate that the explosion was triggered when a tanker loaded with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) crashed, leading to an attempt to transfer its contents.
During this process, spilled PMS ignited after coming into contact with a generator used for the transfer, resulting in a catastrophic fire.
The majority of the deceased were reportedly burned beyond recognition, and the injured have been rushed to nearby hospitals for urgent medical care.
Most of the victims were local residents and passers-by.As rescue operations continue, NEMA’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, expressed profound sympathy for the victims and their families.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with those injured, and we wish them a swift and complete recovery,” she stated.Umar emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of safety measures across the nation, particularly concerning the transportation and handling of combustible materials.
“This incident is a stark reminder of the urgent need to enhance our regulatory frameworks to prevent such occurrences in the future,” she added.
She also commended the prompt response of emergency services, first responders, and security agencies in managing the aftermath of this tragic event.
Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and prioritize safety at all times as the country grapples with the implications of this disaster.
