In a heartbreaking incident, over 100 people have reportedly lost their lives, and more than 50 others have been hospitalized after a fuel-laden tanker exploded in Majiya village, Taura Local Government Area, Jigawa State. The tragic event occurred around 12:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 16, when the tanker, en route from Port Harcourt to Nguru in Yobe State, crashed and spilled its contents, leading to a deadly explosion.
According to eyewitnesses, the accident took place when the tanker driver lost control, causing the vehicle to overturn. In the aftermath, villagers rushed to the scene to scoop fuel from the fallen tanker. Unfortunately, tragedy struck when the petrol ignited, resulting in a devastating explosion that claimed dozens of lives on the spot.
Confirming the horrific event, DSP Lawal Shiisu Adams, spokesperson for the Jigawa State Police Command, stated:
“Today, a petrol tanker from Port Harcourt heading to Nguru in Yobe State crashed at Majiya village in Taura Local Government Area around 12:30 a.m. The tanker overturned, causing its contents to spill into the gutters and drainages. Villagers started scooping the fuel when it caught fire, leading to a tragic explosion. So far, 95 people have been confirmed dead, and 50 are currently hospitalized receiving treatment.”
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According to him, the explosion has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving families grieving and in distress. Authorities are urging people to avoid gathering at accident sites involving fuel tankers, emphasizing the extreme danger of such actions.
This tragic event has sparked outrage and sorrow across social media platforms, with many calling for increased safety measures on Nigeria’s highways and better awareness campaigns about the risks of scooping fuel from fallen tankers.
As the number of casualties continues to rise, local authorities have begun investigations into the incident to determine the exact cause of the explosion and to prevent future tragedies of this nature.
The state government and emergency services have been mobilized to provide medical care to the injured and offer support to the families affected by this devastating event.
