By Ighomuaye Lucky. O
It was a black Saturday in Niger State as tanker explosion claimed well over 60 persons while others are left injured.
The incident happened at Dikko Junction on the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway in Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State.
It was learnt that the fatality rate was high because people gathered to scoop the spilled product from the tanker when the explosion happened.
The Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Kumar Tsukwam, confirmed the incident and the fatalities.
The FRSC Sector Commander said that rescue operation was ongoing and all safety measures for road users have been put in place as the gridlock along Abuja-Kaduna highway has been controlled.
However, The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has mourned those who have lost their lives in the incident.
According to a statement from NNPC, its Executive Vice President, Downstream, Mr. Isiyaku Abdullahi, expressed profound sorrow over the loss of lives during a condolence visit to the General Hospital in Sabon Wuse, Niger State.
He offered prayers for the peaceful repose of the departed souls and wished the injured a swift and full recovery.
Abdullahi also urged the public to exercise extreme caution and avoid approaching fallen petrol tankers to prevent such heartbreaking tragedies in the future.
“NNPC Ltd remains committed to the safety and well-being of all Nigerians and will continue to advocate for greater awareness of the dangers associated with fuel-related accidents,” the statement added.
