The Niger State Government has conducted a mass burial for victims of the tragic tanker explosion that claimed at least 39 lives and left 60 others injured in the Essan community, Katcha Local Government Area.
According to a statement on Thursday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Bologi Ibrahim, the state government also donated medical supplies worth ₦10 million to hospitals treating the injured.
The government delegation, led by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Dr. Murtala Bagana, visited the scene of the incident to assess the situation and offer support to affected families.
Bologi explained that about 50 people are currently receiving treatment for various injuries — including burns and complications from inhaling fumes — at health facilities such as the Federal Medical Centre, Bida; General Hospitals in Bida and Agaie; as well as the National Hospital, Abuja; Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital; and FMC Jabi.
“The state government has provided drugs and medical supplies worth over ₦10 million to support hospitals treating the victims and has also presented cash donations to affected families receiving care,” the statement read.
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He added that a mass burial and prayer session were held in Katcha for the deceased victims.
While commending all stakeholders who have shown concern since the tragedy, the state government urged residents to avoid scooping fuel from fallen tankers and called on the Federal Government to urgently repair the Jebba–Mokwa–Bida–Agaie–Lapai–Lambata road, which it said contributed to the accident.
“The state government reaffirms its commitment to the safety and well-being of all residents and urges the Federal Government to expedite work on federal roads in the state to prevent such tragedies,” Bologi added.
The explosion occurred after residents rushed to scoop fuel from a fallen tanker along the expressway, resulting in a deadly fire that left dozens dead and many others severely injured.
