At least 30 people were killed and 40 injured after a tanker exploded in Niger State while residents were scooping petrol.
No fewer than 30 people were reportedly killed and about 40 others injured after a fuel tanker exploded while residents were scooping petrol at Essan and Badeggi communities on the Bida-Agaie road in Katcha Local Government Area of Niger State.
An eyewitness said the victims were trapped while collecting fuel from the overturned tanker before it exploded, burning many beyond recognition.
Chairman of the State Tanker Drivers and NUPENG National Ex-Officio, Comrade Farouk Mohammed Kawo, confirmed the incident, blaming it on the “very bad nature of the road,” which had caused “over 30 tanker accidents this month alone.”
Governor Muhammed Umaru Bago described the tragedy as “worrisome, unfortunate, and pathetic,” urging residents to stop endangering their lives by approaching fallen tankers.
He commended the State Emergency Management Agency for its quick response and promised government support for victims and their families.