A tragic fuel tanker explosion in Majiya village, Jigawa State, has claimed the lives of at least 107 people, leaving many more injured and a community in shock. The tanker, registered as KMC 6412 F, was traveling from Kano to Nguru, Yobe State, when the driver lost control near Khadija University in Majia Town, causing it to overturn and spill fuel.

Eyewitnesses describe the chaotic scene as villagers attempted to scoop petrol from the drainage, unaware of the impending disaster. “As the tanker exploded in flames, most of the villagers were abruptly awakened and rushed to the scene,” said Adamu Muhammad, who narrowly escaped the explosion. “We tried to help, but the inferno was too much to be confronted. There were shouting, roaring from the people who went to scoop for the fuel, coming out from the crashed tanker.”

Musa Sani, another resident, recounted the terrifying moments: “People were running in all directions, screaming for help. The fire spread so quickly that many couldn’t escape.”

The Jigawa State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that 105 corpses have been evacuated, while 50 injured persons were rushed to Ringim and Hadejia General Hospitals for medical attention ¹. The police, firefighters, and good Samaritans worked together to extinguish the fire.

This devastating incident is one of the deadliest tanker explosions in Nigeria’s recent history, with the death toll initially reported at 90, then 95, before the latest update. The country is in mourning, and authorities are working to provide support to the affected families.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with tanker transportation and the importance of ensuring public safety. As the investigation into the cause of the explosion continues, Nigerians are left to grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event.

IGP Sends Condolences

In his reaction to the development, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the government, and people of Jigawa State.

“The Nigeria Police Force commiserates with the Government and good people of Jigawa State, especially the families of the victims,” said IGP Egbetokun. He also praised the swift response of police personnel and emergency responders in extinguishing the fire, evacuating victims, and restoring normalcy in the area.

IGP Egbetokun reassured the public of robust sensitization programs to raise awareness about the dangers of oil scooping and similar activities. He emphasized the importance of caution and adherence to safety guidelines among motorists and road users.

As the people of Jigawa State mourn the loss of their loved ones, the Nigeria Police Force is committed to preventing such tragedies in the future. The IGP’s message serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and responsible behavior to ensure public safety.

The incident has sent shockwaves across the nation, and the police force’s prompt response is a testament to their dedication to protecting the citizens of Nigeria. As the investigation into the explosion continues, the focus remains on supporting the affected families and preventing similar incidents from occurring.

StreetReporters.ng