At least 70 people lost their lives and dozens were injured on Saturday in northern Nigeria when a petrol tanker overturned, spilling fuel that ignited in a deadly explosion, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
The incident occurred in Niger State, marking yet another devastating fuel-related accident in the country. It follows a similar tragedy in Jigawa State last October, where 147 people perished in one of Nigeria’s deadliest fuel explosions.
Details of the Incident
“Over 70 bodies have been recovered, 56 individuals are injured, and more than 15 shops have been destroyed,” NEMA said in a statement. Emergency responders have transported the injured to nearby hospitals, while recovery efforts for the deceased continue.
A witness reported that graves were being dug late Saturday to bury the victims in accordance with Islamic rites, as Niger is predominantly a Muslim state.
Circumstances Leading to the Explosion
Kumar Tsukwam, the sector commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps in Niger State, explained that many victims were impoverished residents who had gathered to scoop up the spilled petrol when the tanker overturned.
“Despite concerted efforts to stop them, a large crowd gathered to collect the fuel,” Tsukwam said. He added that firefighters eventually extinguished the blaze.
Recurring Tragedies in Nigeria
Fuel tanker explosions have become a frequent tragedy in Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer. These incidents often claim lives in a country battling a severe cost-of-living crisis.
The situation has worsened since President Bola Tinubu eliminated a decades-old petrol subsidy upon taking office in May 2023, causing fuel prices to soar by over 400%. This economic strain has made incidents like these even more perilous, as desperate residents risk their lives to collect spilled fuel.
Government Response
Bologi Ibrahim, spokesperson for the Niger State governor, urged residents to prioritize their safety during accidents involving petrol tankers.
“We implore everyone to exercise caution and prioritize their lives above any immediate material gain,” Ibrahim said.
