No fewer than 90 people have been confirmed dead following a devastating petrol tanker explosion in Majiya Town, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State on Tuesday, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Mr. Shi’isu Adam, the Police Spokesperson for Jigawa State, disclosed this information in an interview with NAN on Wednesday. He noted that an additional 50 people sustained various degrees of injuries and were rushed to the hospital for medical treatment.
Detailing the incident, Adam explained that the explosion occurred at around 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday when a tanker driver lost control near Khadija University in Majia Town. The tanker, which was transporting fuel from Kano to Nguru in Yobe, erupted into flames upon impact.
Expressing his concern, the police spokesperson lamented that despite repeated warnings to the public to avoid accident scenes involving fuel tankers, people continue to gather at such dangerous spots, often leading to tragic outcomes. “The mass casualty was a result of people gathering around the accident scene despite police warnings,” Adam stated.
According to Adam, preparations for a mass burial of the victims were underway, with the ceremony scheduled for 9 a.m. on Wednesday. He added that the injured victims are currently receiving treatment at Ringim General Hospital.
The incident has once again raised concerns about public safety and adherence to guidelines during emergencies involving hazardous materials.
