It was gathered that the tanker overturned on the poorly maintained road, spilling petrol which ignited shortly after the crash. Reports indicate many victims were attempting to scoop fuel from the wreckage when the explosion happened, exacerbating the casualties.
Aishatu Sa’adu the Niger State Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Sector Commander, confirmed the incident, warning against dangerous fuel scooping practices.
Farouk Kawo, Chairman of the Niger State Tanker Drivers Association has also described the tragedy as “devastating and avoidable,” blaming the poor state of the Bida-Agaie road for recurrent accidents – over 30 tanker accidents occurred on this route in October alone, solʻiciting Governor Umaru Bago to urgently repair the road to prevent further loss of life.
The injured victims were taken to the Federal Medical Centre Bida for treatment.
Governor of Niger State, Umaru Bago has extended condolences, describing the incident as “worrisome, unfortunate, and pathetic”.
