A devastating fuel tanker explosion has reportedly claimed the lives of at least 30 people and left over 40 others severely injured in Essa, Agaie Local Government Area of Niger State.
The tragic incident occurred on Tuesday morning between Essa and Badeggi communities, along the Bida–Agaie road, when a petrol-laden tanker overturned. Eyewitnesses said residents rushed to the scene to scoop leaking fuel, but disaster struck around 11 a.m., igniting a massive explosion that engulfed dozens of people.
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Many of the victims were burnt beyond recognition, while survivors were rushed to nearby medical facilities with varying degrees of burns.
According to reports, the tanker was en route from Lagos to northern Nigeria when it lost control and crashed, spilling its highly flammable content.
Reacting to the tragedy, Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, describing the incident as “worrisome, unfortunate, and deeply pathetic.”
Governor Bago extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured victims a quick recovery. He also cautioned residents against the dangerous practice of scooping fuel from accident scenes, emphasizing that such actions continue to claim innocent lives across the country.
Authorities are expected to launch an investigation into the immediate cause of the accident and the resulting fire outbreak.
