BREAKING NEWS: Tanker Explosion in Niger State Claims Over 30 Lives, Leaves 40 Injured

By Tgnews Reporter

A deadly explosion rocked the Essan and Badeggi communities along the Bida–Agaie road in Katcha Local Government Area, Niger State, around 11:00 a.m. today, claiming several lives and leaving others injured.

According to eyewitnesses, a fuel tanker crashed and fell, spilling petroleum. People rushed to collect fuel from the tanker when it suddenly burst into flames, causing a massive fire that trapped many in its path. Several victims were burned so badly they could not be identified, while those injured were quickly taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Comrade Farouk Kawo, Chairman of the Niger State Tanker Drivers Association and a national officer of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), confirmed the tragic incident, calling it “heartbreaking and preventable.”

He explained that the tanker was carrying fuel from Lagos to northern Nigeria when it crashed. Kawo noted that the Bida–Agaie road has seen over 30 tanker accidents this month alone, blaming the poor condition of the road for the frequent crashes.

Kawo also expressed frustration over the dangerous habit of some youths who rush to scoop fuel or other products from crashed tankers, despite warnings. “Just last Sunday, another tanker carrying groundnut oil crashed in the same area, and people still went to collect the oil,” he said.

Efforts to reach Abdullahi Baba-Arah, the Director-General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), for comment were unsuccessful, as his phone went unanswered.

Kawo urged Governor Umaru Bago to urgently repair the damaged section of the Bida–Agaie road to prevent further accidents and save lives and property.