A tragic tanker explosion in Niger State has resulted in the death of at least 50 people, with over 50 cattle also reported killed.
The incident occurred on the Lapai-Agaie road, close to Dendo community in Agaie Local Government Area.
The explosion happened when a petrol tanker, filled with gasoline, collided with a trailer truck carrying passengers and cattle.
The collision caused a massive fire that engulfed several vehicles, including a crane truck and a pickup van.
Villagers who spoke to our correspondent described the scene as chaotic and devastating.
One villager, Abubakar Agaie, confirmed, “We counted about 100 people burnt in the accident. The fire was so intense that our people could not approach the affected vehicles.”
The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) reported that 30 people have been confirmed dead, with rescue operations ongoing.
In a statement, NSEMA noted, “We received a report of a deadly tanker explosion that occurred on September 8, 2024, around 12:30 a.m., near Dendo Community in Agaie LGA.”
NSEMA’s Rapid Response Team (RRT) is working alongside Local Government Emergency Management Committees (LGEMCs) to search for more victims and manage the aftermath.
Governor Mohammed Bago of Niger State has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic event.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, the governor described the incident as “painful” and extended his condolences to the victims’ families.
Governor Bago urged residents to remain calm and advised road users to adhere to traffic regulations to prevent such accidents in the future.
“I pray for the repose of the souls of the departed and for the swift recovery of those injured,” the governor said.
The explosion has also drawn reactions from national figures. Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the last election, expressed his grief over the loss of lives.
In a statement on social media, Obi said, “I am pained by the loss of human lives in this accident. The explosion occurred less than 24 hours after a similar event in Ibadan, Oyo State.”
Obi commended the emergency services for their efforts and extended his condolences to the affected families and governments of Niger and Oyo States.
“This unfortunate event is deeply saddening. I pray for the souls of the deceased and for the quick recovery of the injured,” Obi added.
The tanker explosion highlights ongoing concerns about road safety and the handling of hazardous materials in Nigeria.
