- Fuel tanker explosion in Nigeria's Jigawa state kills 153
- Victims rushed for leaking petrol
- Over 100 injured, driver in custody amid investigation
A catastrophic fuel tanker explosion in northern Nigeria has resulted in the deaths of at least 153 individuals who had gathered at the accident site to collect leaking petrol, according to officials. The incident occurred late on Tuesday night in Jigawa state, where the overturned tanker was engulfed in flames.
Emergency services reported that approximately 100 others sustained injuries in the explosion and have been hospitalized, many in critical condition. Lawal Shiisu Adam, a police spokesman, stated that officers had cordoned off the area and warned the public against approaching the tanker, but were overwhelmed by the crowd.
“We tried our best to stop people going to the vehicle to get petrol but despite cordoning [off] the area, we were overpowered and as people were scooping fuel, fire erupted,” Adam told the BBC.
The accident occurred in the town of Majia around 23:30 local time (22:30 GMT) when the tanker, traveling from Kano to Nguru in Yobe state, lost control. The driver, who escaped unharmed, is currently in police custody as authorities conduct an investigation.
In a statement of condolence, Vice-President Kashim Shettima urged a thorough review of fuel transportation safety protocols across Nigeria. Distressing videos circulating on social media captured the moments following the explosion, highlighting the chaos at the scene.
Many victims were burned beyond recognition, and their bodies were covered with tree branches to shield them from view. Rescue workers are continuing their efforts, discovering additional bodies, some found far from the accident site, believed to have been attempting to seek help.
The majority of the deceased have been laid to rest in a mass burial ceremony. Fuel tanker explosions are a recurring tragedy in Nigeria, often attributed to the poor state of roads and poorly maintained vehicles.
As the cleanup operation unfolded in Jigawa, another fuel tanker accident occurred in Ibafo, Ogun state, where a tanker overturned and spilled petrol, causing a fire that damaged nearby vehicles. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the incident resulted in significant property damage.
In September, a similar tragedy in Niger state claimed the lives of 59 people when a fuel tanker collided with a lorry carrying passengers and cattle.
