On Saturday, a petrol tanker exploded on the Dikko-Maje Road across from the Badeggi filling station in the Suleja Local Government Area, killing no fewer than 50 persons.
Mr. Kumar Tsukwam, the Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Niger State, verified the event, which happened when a tanker carrying Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) toppled and spilt its contents.
According to reports, those who gathered to collect the fuel spill were caught in an explosion that also affected rescuers.
Charred corpses and extensive destruction were left behind as the fire extended across a large area.
“We have more than 50 fatalities in this tragic incident,” Tsukwam stated.
“Our personnel, alongside sister agencies, are on the ground conducting rescue operations and ensuring the safety of the area.”
The explosion reportedly occurred around 9:00 am during an attempt to transfer PMS from a crashed tanker to another vehicle.
Alhaji Abdullahi Baba-Arah, the Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), confirmed that efforts are underway to clear the site and assist victims.
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According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the explosion was triggered when petrol came into contact with a generator being used during the transfer, resulting in a fire that claimed over 50 lives.
Many others sustained injuries, while properties worth millions of Naira were destroyed in the tragic incident.
Baba-Arah stated that NSEMA, in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Suleja Local Government Emergency Committee, and local volunteers, is actively conducting search, rescue, and recovery operations.
He added that the injured have been transported to the hospital for treatment, and efforts are ongoing to recover the bodies of the deceased.
Baba-Arah appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with emergency responders as they work to manage the aftermath of the disaster.
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