
At least 60 bodies have been recovered following a devastating fuel tanker explosion in Dikko, Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State. The tragedy occurred on Saturday morning, leaving scores dead and several others injured.
The incident, which involved a tanker carrying 60,000 litres of petrol, was confirmed by Kumar Tsukwam, the Niger State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). Tsukwam revealed that the ill-fated tanker, bearing the registration number KBG-103-XAX, belonged to HMY Oil and Gas and was operated by one Mohammed Modu.
According to Tsukwam, the vehicle was en route to Gwagwalada in the Federal Capital Territory after loading fuel in Lagos when the tanker body detached from the head, causing it to overturn. Tragically, scavengers gathered at the scene to scoop fuel despite warnings to stay away.
In a further twist, the fire spread to a second tanker in the area, exacerbating the devastation.
Abdullah Baba Arah, Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), explained that the explosion was ignited by a generator being used to transfer fuel from the fallen tanker to another vehicle.
Emergency services are still working to manage the aftermath of the explosion, while authorities have urged residents to prioritize safety and avoid risky behaviors during such incidents.
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