Niger Tanker Tragedy: 86 Lives Lost in Devastating Explosion – NSEMA DG

The tragic tanker explosion which occurred at Dikko Junction in Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State at the weekend has so far claimed 86 lives, Mr. Abdullahi Baba Arah, the Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), has confirmed.

On Sunday, Arah provided an update on the burial arrangements, stating that 80 victims were laid to rest in a mass grave at the Dikko Primary Health Care premises.

Arah confirmed that 55 people sustained injuries in the explosion and are currently receiving medical care.

Meanwhile, five bodies were claimed by family members for private burial ceremonies as one victim succumbed to injuries at the healthcare centre

The tragic incident occurred when a fuel tanker traveling from Kaduna to Gwagwalada fell at the junction, spilling its contents.

Despite warnings to keep a safe distance from the scene, many residents gathered to scoop fuel from the site.

The tanker exploded, resulting in catastrophic loss of life, severe injuries, and the destruction of property worth millions of naira.

The mass burial, organized by NSEMA in collaboration with Gurara local government officials and community volunteers, commenced at 5 p.m. and lasted until midnight of Saturday.