Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Henry Owen
Tragedy struck Niger State as an oil tanker veered off the Bida-Agaie road and overturned near the Essan and Badeggi communities in Katcha Local Government Area. The vehicle spilled its fuel, attracting villagers who rushed to collect it, only for the tanker to explode in a massive fire, claiming numerous lives.
Reports indicate that about 30 people were killed in the incident, with at least 40 others sustaining injuries of varying severity. The intense blaze burned many victims beyond recognition, while survivors were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Conflicting accounts from authorities place the death toll between 29 and 35.
The Federal Road Safety Corps and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) have been on the scene, coordinating rescue efforts and assisting the injured. NEMA officials emphasized the recurring danger of approaching fallen tankers despite repeated safety campaigns.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago described the explosion as "worrisome, unfortunate, and pathetic," expressing condolences to the families affected. His office urged residents to heed warnings about the dangers of collecting fuel from overturned tankers.
The tanker, transporting petroleum products from Lagos to northern Nigeria, reportedly crashed due to the poor state of the road, highlighting the persistent challenges of road safety across the country. Nigeria has witnessed similar incidents in recent years, including deadly tanker explosions in Jigawa and Suleja, Niger State.
Authorities continue to investigate the accident while emphasizing the urgent need for safer road infrastructure and increased public awareness to prevent such recurring tragedies.
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