• A generator used to power the transloading of petrol from a fallen tanker to another caused the explosion in the Niger petrol tanker tragedy
• The incident resulted in the deaths of 50-77 people, with many others injured and rushed to hospitals
• The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) confirmed the death toll and stated that the explosion occurred when spilling petrol came into contact with the generator

A devastating explosion occurred in Niger State, Nigeria, resulting in the loss of many lives. Investigations have revealed that a generator used to power the transloading of petrol from a fallen tanker to another was the cause of the explosion.

According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred when a tanker loaded with petrol crashed, and an attempt was made to transfer its contents to a second tanker. As the transfer process was about to begin, residents of the area, mostly youths and some women, rushed to the scene to scoop spilled fuel.

Tragically, the spilling petrol came into contact with the generator, triggering an explosion of flames that engulfed the scoopers and the two vehicles. The explosion resulted in the deaths of 50-77 people, with many others injured and rushed to hospitals.

The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) confirmed the death toll and stated that the explosion occurred along Dikko-Maje Road, opposite Baddegi Filling Station. The agency, in collaboration with other emergency responders, carried out search, rescue, and recovery operations to rescue the injured and recover the bodies of the deceased.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) also reported that 70 people died in the explosion, with most of the victims burnt beyond recognition. The FRSC statement added that a large crowd of people gathered to scoop the fuel when the tanker burst into flames, engulfing another tanker.

The incident highlights the importance of safety precautions when handling hazardous materials like petrol. It also underscores the need for emergency responders to be equipped with the necessary resources and training to respond effectively to such incidents.