At least 60 people lost their lives, and many others were injured after a fuel tanker exploded in the Dikko area of Niger State, northern Nigeria, according to local authorities.
The incident occurred when a tanker overturned, spilling petrol. Many rushed to collect the spilled fuel, leading to a fire that engulfed another tanker. “Most of the victims were burnt beyond recognition,” said Kumar Tsukwam, a sector commander with the Federal Road Safety Corps, who confirmed that firefighters had extinguished the blaze.
Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago described the tragedy as “worrisome, heartbreaking, and unfortunate,” while authorities worked to clear the area and manage the aftermath.
Fuel tanker accidents are a recurring tragedy in Nigeria, where soaring fuel prices have prompted people to risk their lives collecting fuel from overturned tankers. Similar incidents have claimed hundreds of lives in recent years, including a devastating explosion in Jigawa State in October 2024 that killed over 150 people.
President Bola Tinubu has committed to strengthening fuel transportation safety measures, including stricter enforcement of regulations and improved highway patrols, to prevent further tragedies.
