By Fatima Mukhtar
A tragic fuel tanker explosion has claimed at least 35 lives and left 46 others injured in Essa and Badeggi communities along the Bida–Agaie Road in Niger State.
The incident occurred on Tuesday morning when a tanker transporting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from Lagos to the northern region overturned near Essa village in Katcha Local Government Area. Eyewitnesses said residents rushed to the scene to scoop spilled fuel before the tanker suddenly exploded, engulfing dozens in flames.
Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed that 35 people died, while 46 others sustained varying degrees of burns. Survivors are receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre, Bida, and nearby clinics.
Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago described the incident as worrisome, unfortunate, and very pathetic, extending condolences to the families of the deceased and the injured. He also promised an investigation into the root causes, including the deteriorating condition of the road.
The Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) said over 30 tanker accidents have been recorded along the Bida–Agaie corridor in recent weeks, citing bad roads and poor safety practices.
Authorities have again warned residents against scooping fuel from accident scenes, calling it a life-threatening act that continues to claim innocent lives.
“This is a needless national tragedy born out of ignorance and disregard for safety warnings,” the FRSC sector commander, Hajiya Aishatu Sa’adu, lamented.
As investigations continue, the charred remains of victims have been buried in mass graves near the accident site, while families continue to identify their loved ones.
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