95 dead, 50 injured in tragic fuel tanker explosion

In a devastating incident at Majiya village in Jigawa’s Taura local government area, at least 95 people have been confirmed dead and 50 others severely injured after a petrol tanker exploded while villagers were scooping fuel.

The tragedy occurred around 12:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, when the tanker, en route from Port Harcourt to Nguru in Yobe State, lost control and overturned, spilling its contents into nearby drainages.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for Jigawa State, DSP Lawal Adams, the incident unfolded when villagers rushed to collect the fuel leaking from the tanker.

“The fuel spread quickly into the gutters, and many people gathered to scoop it,” Adams said. “Shortly after, the petrol ignited, causing an explosion that has claimed 95 lives and left 50 people in critical condition.”

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with flames rapidly engulfing the area.

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One survivor, Abdullahi Musa, recalled the harrowing moments: “We thought it was an opportunity to get fuel, but everything changed so fast. One minute we were collecting the petrol, the next we were running for our lives as the fire spread.” Musa, who sustained minor burns, added that many were trapped as the fire erupted without warning.

Another villager, Fatima Sule, who lost two family members in the tragedy, said, “We were all shouting for help. It was a nightmare. Some people were caught in the fire, and there was nothing anyone could do.”

The police have since urged the public to stay away from such dangerous situations in the future. Adams reiterated, “Incidents like this can easily turn fatal. We warn the public to avoid scooping fuel from fallen tankers to prevent more tragedies.”

The 50 injured individuals are currently receiving medical treatment at a local hospital, while emergency services continue recovery efforts. The incident highlights the persistent dangers of fuel scooping; a practice that has claimed many lives in the past across Nigeria.