- At least 48 dead after a fuel tanker explosion in Niger State
- Collision involved a tanker, a truck with passengers and cattle, and multiple other vehicles
- Nigeria faces ongoing fuel shortages and price hikes
At least 48 people were killed when a fuel tanker exploded after crashing into another vehicle in Niger State, north-central Nigeria.
This region, notorious for its hazardous roads and frequent accidents, witnessed one of its deadliest incidents in recent years.
The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) confirmed that the fuel tanker collided with a truck transporting passengers and cattle, with several other vehicles also caught in the fiery aftermath.
According to SEMA spokesperson Hussaini Ibrahim, the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue. “Officials are still working to clear the wreckage,” Ibrahim reported.
This explosion is one of the most severe road accidents in recent memory for the area. Fuel tanker explosions are alarmingly common in Nigeria, where subpar road maintenance and vehicle conditions often lead to such tragedies.
Adding to the tragedy, Nigeria is grappling with severe fuel shortages. Just last week, NNPC Ltd, the state oil company, increased gasoline prices by at least 39%, marking the second significant hike in over a year.
Despite these increases, fuel shortages continue to plague motorists, leading to long queues at gas stations across major cities.
