By Samaila Emmanuel Bzugu
Tragedy struck in Jigawa State, Nigeria, after a petrol tanker exploded, claiming the lives of 94 people and injuring 50 others. The devastating incident occurred in Majiya Town, Taura Local Government Area, when the driver lost control of the tanker, which was traveling from Kano to Nguru in Yobe State.
The explosion happened around 12:30 AM when residents were scooping fuel from the overturned tanker, sparking a massive inferno. DSP Lawan Adam, Police Public Relations Officer, explained that the residents were scooping fuel when the explosion occurred, killing 94 people on the spot.
Another 50 people were severely injured and rushed to Ringim and Hadejia General Hospitals for treatment. A mass burial was held for the victims, with the entire community mourning the loss.
The residents were scooping fuel when the explosion occurred, killing 94 people on the spot
Commissioner of Police AT Abdullahi expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and urged residents to report such incidents to relevant authorities to prevent loss of life. “Safety must be our priority,” he added.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with people running in all directions and screaming for help as the fire spread rapidly. Resident Sani Umar, who narrowly escaped the inferno, recounted, “It was terrifying. People were running in all directions, screaming for help. The fire spread so quickly that many couldn’t escape.”
It was terrifying. People were running in all directions, screaming for help. The fire spread so quickly that many couldn’t escape
This tragic incident highlights the importance of public awareness regarding the dangers of petrol explosions and the need for caution when dealing with accidents involving fuel tankers.
