A catastrophic tanker explosion at Dikko Junction in Gurara Local Government Area, Niger State, has claimed 86 lives, with 55 others injured.
Abdullahi Baba Arah, Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), disclosed on Sunday that 80 victims were buried in a mass grave at the Dikko Primary Health Care premises, while five bodies were claimed by relatives for private burial. One victim succumbed to injuries at the healthcare center.
The tragedy unfolded when a fuel tanker traveling from Kaduna to Gwagwalada overturned, spilling its contents. Despite warnings to maintain a safe distance, residents gathered to scoop fuel, leading to an explosion that caused extensive casualties and property damage.
The mass burial, coordinated by NSEMA alongside local government officials and community volunteers, began at 5 p.m. and extended into midnight.
Arah also confirmed that 55 injured victims are receiving medical care as efforts continue to support the affected families and prevent similar incidents in the future.
This devastating event underscores the urgent need for enhanced public safety awareness and stricter regulations to prevent fuel-related tragedies.
