No fewer than 60 lives were lost in a tragic tanker explosion that occurred on Saturday in Dikko, Gurara Local Government Area, Niger State.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Sector Commander in Niger, Kumar Tsukwam, confirmed the fatalities in a statement. He revealed that the petrol tanker, with registration number KBG-103-XAX and owned by HMY Oil and Gas, was transporting 60,000 litres of fuel from Lagos to Gwagwalada in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) when it overturned.

According to Tsukwam, the vehicle’s body detached from its head, causing the tanker to fall. Despite warnings to steer clear, many people gathered to scoop the spilled fuel, resulting in the high casualty figure. The fire also engulfed a nearby tanker, worsening the devastation.

Also speaking on the incident, Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), Abdullah Baba Arah, revealed that the explosion was triggered by a generator used to transfer fuel from the fallen tanker to another vehicle.

Local authorities have urged residents to avoid engaging in risky behaviour around hazardous materials to prevent further loss of lives.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing, with emergency responders working tirelessly to address the aftermath and provide necessary support to the affected community.