A devastating tanker explosion occurred on Monday morning in Dan Magaji, Zaria, Kaduna State, claiming the lives of several individuals.
The tragic incident happened at approximately 8:30 a.m. near the Rochas Foundation School, located along the heavily trafficked Kaduna–Kano expressway bypass, between the towns of Kwangila and Dan Magaji.
Eyewitnesses and security experts who arrived at the scene described the catastrophic collision involving two fuel-laden tankers and two passenger vehicles, specifically Golf cars, carrying several commuters.
The impact of the crash triggered a series of five powerful explosions, sending massive flames soaring into the sky and releasing thick, choking plumes of black smoke that rapidly engulfed the highway. The scale and intensity of the fire caused widespread panic and disruption on the busy expressway, which serves as a critical transportation artery in the region.
One eyewitness, speaking through security analyst Zagazola Makama, detailed the tragic outcome of the crash. According to the report, all occupants of the passenger cars perished instantly due to the force of the explosions and the ensuing fire, except for one driver who miraculously survived but sustained critical burn injuries. Emergency medical teams were urgently needed to attend to the wounded and transport them to nearby hospitals for intensive care.
In response to the disaster, emergency services and security personnel promptly arrived at the scene, swiftly working to secure the area and prevent further accidents. Traffic authorities immediately advised motorists to avoid the affected stretch of the expressway and use alternative routes to ease congestion and ensure safety. Firefighters battled the inferno to prevent the flames from spreading further, while rescue teams focused on recovering victims and clearing debris.
The incident has once again highlighted the dangers posed by transporting flammable materials on busy roadways and the need for enhanced safety measures and stricter regulations to prevent such tragic accidents in the future. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the collision and are expected to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Residents and commuters affected by the explosion expressed their shock and grief over the loss of lives and the disruption caused. The community continues to mourn while emergency and security agencies work tirelessly to restore normalcy to the expressway.