A devastating petrol tanker explosion in Majiya town, Jigawa State, has left at least 105 people dead and 55 others injured. The tragedy occurred Tuesday night when the tanker, traveling from Kano to Yobe, overturned near Khadija University, spilling fuel into a drainage system.
Despite warnings from authorities, locals attempted to scoop the fuel, triggering a massive explosion that engulfed the area.
Jigawa State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, Shiisu Adam, confirmed the casualty figures, stating that many victims were burnt beyond recognition.
President Bola Tinubu has directed a high-level delegation, led by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, to visit Jigawa State and provide emergency aid to affected families. The delegation includes ministers and officials from relevant agencies.
Tinubu expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and reassured the nation that the Federal Government will review fuel transportation safety protocols nationwide.
He also directed the Federal Road Safety Corps to strengthen night travel measures and hold accountable those responsible for breaches of safety standards.
Preparations are underway for a mass burial for the victims, while injured persons are receiving treatment at Ringim General Hospital and Federal Medical Centre Birnin Kudu. The Jigawa State Police Command attributed the high casualty rate to desperate attempts by locals to scoop fuel despite warnings.
The incident has sparked widespread grief, with President Tinubu and other officials offering condolences and support to the affected families.
