The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed that over 70 people died and more than 56 others were injured in the tanker explosion in Niger State on Saturday.
The Daily Crucible reported earlier that the incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday along Dikko-Maje Road opposite Baddegi Station.
The NEMA stated that most of the victims were charred, added that the injured have been evacuated to hospitals.
According to the agency, the explosion occurred after a tanker loaded with PMS crashed and there was an attempt to transfer its contents to another.
It said an emergency rescue team has been deployed to Dikko Junction along the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway in Niger State, following a tragic tanker fire explosion.
The agency’s statement reads: “According to reports, the explosion occurred after the crashing of a tanker loaded with PMS and an attempt was made to transfer its contents to another.
“In the process, the spilt PMS came in contact with the generator being used to power the transfer, triggering the inferno that claimed over 70 lives, injured more than 56 persons, and destroyed shops and property.
“While most of the deaths were burnt beyond recognition, the injured persons have been evacuated to nearby hospitals for urgent medical attention. Most of the victims were members of the community and passers-by. However, the rescue evacuation is still ongoing.”
The Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar while expressing sympathy for the victims and their families, condemned the act of poor handling of spilled tankers.
She stated the recurrent tragedies associated with such risky behaviour.
The DG expressed regrets that, despite the Agency’s extensive public sensitization campaigns with other stakeholders on the dangers of the practice, many individuals continue to ignore the warnings.
Under her directive, NEMA’s emergency team, led by the Head of NEMA Minna Operation Office, Mr Hussaini Isah, is collaborating with first responders to manage the aftermath, including evacuating victims and providing necessary assistance to the affected community.
She also reiterated the agency’s commitment to public safety and the prevention of similar incidents through continued awareness and rapid response.
She said the incident serves as a reminder of the need for strict adherence to safety measures during such emergencies.
