A fuel tanker explosion in northern Nigeria has killed at least 147 people, with many rushing to the scene to collect leaking petrol, authorities confirmed. The tragic incident occurred late Tuesday night in the town of Majia, Jigawa state, after the tanker overturned. Police had cordoned off the area and warned locals to stay away, but they were overwhelmed by the crowd.
According to a BBC report, the fire engulfed the vehicle as people attempted to scoop up fuel. Around 100 others were injured, many critically, and have been hospitalized in the nearby town of Ringim.
Police spokesman Lawal Shiisu Adam explained that the tanker had crashed while traveling from Kano to Nguru. The driver, who survived, is in custody as investigations continue. Emergency services rushed to the scene, with many victims burned beyond recognition.
This incident is one of many fuel tanker accidents in Nigeria, often linked to poor road conditions and vehicle maintenance. As cleanup efforts proceeded, another tanker accident in Ogun state caused a fire, though no casualties were reported.
Fuel tanker tragedies are a recurring issue in Nigeria, with a similar incident in September killing 59 people.
