A horrific petrol tanker explosion in Majiya Town, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State, has claimed the lives of at least 90 people.
The incident occurred on Tuesday night when the tanker driver lost control near Khadija University and the vehicle exploded.
According to Mr. Shi’isu Adam, Police Spokesperson in Jigawa, the driver was traveling from Kano to Nguru in Yobe when the accident happened. “At about 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday in Majia Town, Taura local government area of Jigawa, the tanker driver lost control near Khadija University and exploded,” Adam said.
Adam expressed concern that despite police warnings, people still gather around accident scenes involving fuel tankers, leading to high casualties. “We are worried that in spite of police warning people to stay clear from scenes of accidents involving fuel tankers, they still engage in such acts. People gathered around the accident scene, that is the reason for the mass casualty”.
A mass burial for the victims was held at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, while the injured receive medical attention at the Ringim General Hospital. Fifty people were hospitalized with various degrees of injuries due to the explosion.
This tragic incident highlights the importance of adhering to safety warnings and precautions when dealing with hazardous situations. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims.
