A petrol tanker explosion at Dikko Junction in Niger State on Saturday has claimed the lives of at least 86 people, with 55 others injured.
The incident occurred when a tanker overturned and spilt its contents, prompting residents and passersby to rush to scoop the leaking fuel.
Moments later, the tanker exploded, engulfing dozens in flames and leaving a scene of devastation. Among the injured were rescuers who attempted to save victims.
The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) confirmed the figures on Sunday.
Abdullahi Baba-Arah, NSEMA’s Director-General, revealed, “Eighty of them were buried in a mass grave at Dikko Primary Healthcare Centre premises, while five were taken by their relatives for burial in the town, and one died at Dikko Primary Healthcare Centre.”
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Commander in Niger State, Kumar Tsukwam, explained, “A loaded petrol tanker fell at the scene, and people gathered, scooping spilling fuel. They were engulfed by the fire just as those who went to rescue them were also affected.”
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, who visited the scene, described the explosion as “pathetic,” commending the swift response of rescue agencies.
He directed that vehicles from Maje must no longer pass through Dikko Bridge but take alternative routes.
He also urged the Federal Government to complete the Minna–Suleja road, blaming delays for frequent accidents.
President Bola Tinubu extended his condolences to the victims’ families and ordered comprehensive medical care for the injured.
He urged Nigerians to exercise caution and avoid accident sites involving fuel-laden vehicles, citing the high risk of explosions.
The President also directed security agencies to prevent future occurrences and mandated the National Orientation Agency to launch a nationwide campaign highlighting the dangers of scooping fuel.
Saturday’s explosion is the latest in a series of tanker accidents in Nigeria.
Similar incidents include a tanker explosion in Delta State two weeks ago, which killed five people, and a devastating explosion last October that claimed 153 lives.
Such accidents have become increasingly frequent as many Nigerians struggle with the rising cost of fuel, which has surged by over 400 per cent in the past 18 months following the removal of subsidy by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The government claims these economic reforms aim to strengthen the nation’s economy, but for many Nigerians, the harsh realities of poverty force them into desperate acts, sometimes with fatal consequences.
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