Updated: 40 Deaths Recorded in Niger's Tanker Explosion

No less than 40 people have reportedly died after a fuel tanker exploded along the Essa axis on Agaie–Bida Road in Katcha Local Government Area of Niger State, on Tuesday, October 21.

The incident resulted in heavy traffic congestion on the major road. The incident was confirmed by the sector commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Hajiya Aishatu Sa’adu, who could not ascertain the number of deaths.

However, a statement commiserating with the government and people of Niger state by the Federal Fire Service confirmed that no less than 40 people died in the incident.

According to the statement, the management and staff of the service "expressed deep sorrow over the tragic tanker explosion that claimed 40 lives and left another 40 persons with various degrees of injuries."

The statement, which was signed by the spokesperson of the fire service, DCF P.O. Abraham, called on residents and motorists to report a fuel tanker spilling on time rather than scooping it. The fire service also urged Nigerians "to prioritise safety and vigilance at all times," adding that it is a collective responsibility.

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Daily Trust reported that Sa'adu disclosed that the unfortunate incident has led to traffic gridlock on the expressway that was always busy as a result of the bad nature of the road.

According to the FRSC boss, the bad state of the road was a contributory factor in response time to carry out a rescue operation. It was learnt that no less than 40 persons have been injured while trying to scoop the petroleum product from the fallen petrol tanker.

According to sources, the petrol tanker fell at about 11 am on Tuesday because of the bad state of the Essan road, which was about 4 kilometres from the Badeggi town.

In another statement, Governor Mohammed Umar Bago expressed his grief over the incident and commiserated with the victims and their families, as well as the people of Essa, Katcha LGA. This was disclosed in a statement signed by the governor's spokesperson, Bologi Ibrahim, who described the incident "as worrisome, unfortunate, and pathetic."

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See the full statement of the fire service here:

See the government's statement here:

Source: Legit.ng