Over 30 people have been confirmed dead following a petrol tanker explosion in Agaie Local Government Area of Niger State.
The incident occurred when the tanker collided head-on with trailer truck carrying passengers and cattle from Wudil , Kano State en route Lagos.
“Abdullahi Baba-Arab, Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), has confirmed a devastating tanker explosion in a statement released on Sunday. The incident occurred at approximately 12:30 am on September 8, 2024, along the Lapai-Agaie road, roughly 2 kilometers from Dendo Community in Agaie Local Government Area.
According to the NSEMA statement, the explosion resulted from a collision between a petrol tanker transporting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and a trailer truck carrying travelers and cattle from Wudil, Kano State, en route to Lagos. Two additional vehicles, a crane truck and a pickup van, were also involved in the accident.”
“Tragedy struck in Niger State, resulting in the loss of over 30 lives and more than 50 cattle, following a devastating tanker explosion. The Niger State Emergency Management Agency’s (NSEMA) Rapid Response Team (RRT) and Local Government Emergency Management Committees (LGEMCs) are currently conducting search and rescue operations at the scene, as additional bodies remain trapped inside the vehicles.
In response to the incident, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago expressed his profound sadness over the loss of lives and properties. Through his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, the Governor stated that he is deeply pained by the unfortunate event and the significant loss incurred. He urged residents of the affected area to remain calm and called on road users to exercise caution, adhere to road traffic regulations, and prioritize safety to prevent such incidents.
The Governor extended his condolences to the families of the deceased, praying for the repose of their souls and a speedy recovery for those injured in the explosion.”
