Tragic Gasoline Tanker Blast Claims Lives in Central Nigeria
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Synopsis
A devastating explosion of a gasoline tanker in Niger state, Nigeria, has resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries. Many locals were caught in the blaze while attempting to collect fuel. The incident has sparked calls for enhanced safety regulations.
Key Takeaways
- Gasoline tanker explosion claimed many lives.
- Incident occurred in Niger state.
- Governor described the event as tragic.
- Calls for improved safety regulations are increasing.
- Previous incidents highlight ongoing safety concerns.
Abuja, Jan 18 (NationPress) Many individuals are feared dead and numerous others injured early Saturday following an explosion of a gasoline tanker that overturned, releasing fuel onto a crowded road in Niger state, located in Nigeria's north-central region, as reported by a senior official.
Residents in the Dikko area found themselves engulfed in a fierce blaze while attempting to collect fuel from the damaged tanker, according to Niger Governor Mohammed Bago.
"Many were reported to have perished in the flames," Bago stated, adding that those who were not in close proximity to the tanker managed to escape with various injuries. He characterized the event as "deeply concerning, tragic, and regrettable."
Local sources cited by The Nation, a regional newspaper, reported that at least 30 fatalities resulted from the incident, as confirmed by Xinhua news agency.
The Niger state government has urged local humanitarian organizations to step up and help restore order in the affected region.
Explosions involving gasoline tankers are a recurring issue in Nigeria, frequently leading to significant loss of life and national mourning.
In a similar incident in September, at least 48 fatalities occurred when a tanker carrying gasoline exploded on a crowded highway in Niger.
Many Nigerians attribute these frequent occurrences to the ongoing economic struggles, which push individuals to risky behaviors, such as attempting to collect gasoline from overturned tankers. Others advocate for stricter traffic laws to avert such tragedies.
In October, President Bola Tinubu reaffirmed the government's dedication to promptly reviewing and improving fuel transport safety protocols and instructed law enforcement to enhance initiatives like increased patrols, stricter adherence to safety standards, and additional highway safety measures to avert a recurrence of such incidents.
