Fuel Tanker Explosion in Nigeria Claims at Least 86 Lives

A tragic explosion from a fuel tanker in Nigeria has resulted in the deaths of at least 86 people, with many more injured. The incident occurred when the tanker, carrying 60,000 liters of gasoline, veered off the road at an intersection between Abuja and Kaduna. Subsequently, a crowd gathered around the vehicle attempting to collect leaking fuel when the tanker ignited and exploded.

According to Ibrahim Audu Husseini from the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, the initially reported death toll of 70 has increased to 86. Additionally, around 52 individuals suffered severe burns due to the blast. The terrifying explosion not only claimed lives but also engulfed nearby homes and businesses in flames.

Recovery operations faced challenges as the local community had to dig a mass grave by hand over 14 hours due to a lack of heavy equipment. As the country grapples with rising fuel prices and an ongoing economic crisis, President Bola Tinubu has announced a public information campaign to raise awareness about the dangers associated with gathering fuel from overturned tankers.

This incident follows a previous tragedy in October in which more than 140 people lost their lives in a similar situation in Jigawa State.