A tragic fuel tanker explosion in northern Nigeria has claimed the lives of at least 147 people. The incident occurred when a tanker overturned, leaking petrol, and attracted a large crowd of people attempting to collect the fuel. Despite police efforts to cordon off the area and warn people to stay away, the crowd grew, and a fire eventually ignited, causing a devastating explosion.
The accident took place in Majia, Jigawa state, late Tuesday night. Many of the victims sustained severe injuries, with around 100 individuals currently receiving treatment at a nearby hospital. Some are reported to be in critical condition.
According to police reports, the tanker was en route from Kano to Yobe state when the driver lost control. Although the driver was not injured, he has been taken into custody for further investigation. Emergency services responded quickly to the scene, but many victims had already been burned beyond recognition. Some bodies were found at a distance, likely victims who had tried to flee for help before succumbing to their injuries. The deceased have since been buried in a mass ceremony.
Fuel tanker accidents are frequent in Nigeria due to poor road conditions and inadequately maintained vehicles. In a separate incident, another fuel tanker overturned and caught fire in Ogun state, causing significant property damage but no injuries.
This latest tragedy follows a similar accident in September, which resulted in 59 deaths after a fuel tanker collided with a lorry in Niger state.
