A deadly explosion in north-central Nigeria has claimed at least 31 lives after a gasoline-laden tanker truck overturned and burst into flames in the Bida area of Niger State on Tuesday.
According to police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun, the tragedy struck when residents rushed to the crash site to collect the leaking fuel. Moments later, the tanker exploded, engulfing the area in flames. Seventeen others were injured and rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Authorities say Niger State has seen a growing number of accidents involving heavy-duty trucks, often attributed to deteriorating roads and the lack of a functional railway system. The region remains a critical transport route connecting Nigeria’s north and south, making it especially prone to such catastrophic incidents.
Governor Umaru Bago expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, lamenting that despite repeated warnings, people continue to risk their lives by attempting to collect spilled fuel from overturned tankers. “This is yet another painful, difficult, and tragic one for the people and the state government,” Bago said.
Police have launched an investigation to identify the tanker’s driver, owner, and the cause of the accident.
This is not the first time Niger State has been hit by such a tragedy. In January, at least 98 people died under similar circumstances when residents attempted to siphon gasoline from a crashed tanker using a generator.
Fuel scavenging has become increasingly common across Nigeria as citizens struggle with soaring fuel prices following the removal of government subsidies under President Bola Tinubu — a policy that has deepened economic hardships and, in this case, cost many their lives.