No fewer than 90 people were reportedly killed while 50 others were injured after petrol tanker exploded in Majiya Town, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State on Tuesday night.
The tragic incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. when a tanker driver lost control of his vehicle near Khadija University, causing an explosion. The tanker was en route from Kano to Nguru in Yobe State at the time.
Mr. Shi’isu Adam, the police spokesperson in Jigawa, confirmed the casualties in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday. He expressed concern over the large number of people who gathered at the accident scene despite repeated police warnings against approaching fuel tanker accidents. The gathering led to a higher number of casualties.
“The residents were scooping fuel from the overturned tanker when the explosion occurred, sparking a massive inferno that killed 94 people on the spot. The incident left another 50 people severely injured, who were then rushed to Ringim and Hadejia General Hospitals for treatment,” DSP Adam explained.
READ ALSO : Petrol tanker explosion injures six in Lafia
Commissioner of Police in Jigawa State, AT Abdullahi, conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims, describing the incident as “heartbreaking.” He urged residents to prioritize safety and immediately report such accidents to authorities instead of approaching them.
“This is a painful moment for all of us,” Abdullahi said. “We mourn with the families of the deceased and urge everyone to notify security agencies when such incidents occur to prevent further loss of life.”
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and terror as the fire rapidly spread. Sani Umar, a resident who narrowly escaped, recalled: “It was terrifying. People were running in every direction, screaming for help. The flames moved so fast that many couldn’t escape.”
A mass burial for the victims was scheduled for Wednesday morning, while the injured are currently receiving treatment at Ringim General Hospital. The tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by fuel tanker accidents and the need for greater public caution.
Credible News.ng
