Tragedy struck in Majiya town, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State, when a petrol tanker exploded early Wednesday morning, resulting in the deaths of at least 147 individuals and injuring many others.
The explosion occurred around 12:30 AM as the tanker driver lost control of the vehicle while traveling from Kano to Nguru, Yobe State, near Khadija University.
Local officials confirmed that the incident was escalated by residents rushing to collect spilled fuel from the overturned tanker.
Eyewitness accounts paint a harrowing picture of chaos and desperation, with many attempting to rescue those trapped in the flames. One resident, Sani Umar, described the scene as “terrifying,” noting that “people were running in all directions, screaming for help” as the fire rapidly spread.
The Police Public Relations Officer for Jigawa State, DSP Lawan Adam, reported that 94 people died immediately from the explosion, with an additional 50 suffering severe injuries.
The injured were transported to Ringim and Hadejia General Hospitals for medical treatment. Following the tragedy, a mass burial for the victims was conducted on Wednesday morning, with community members mourning their loss.
In response to the disaster, Jigawa State Commissioner of Police AT Abdullahi expressed condolences to the victims’ families and emphasized the need for public awareness regarding the dangers of gathering at accident scenes.
He urged residents to report such incidents to authorities to prevent further loss of life.
The federal government has ordered an investigation into the incident. Minister of Petroleum Resources Senator Heineken Lokpobiri stated that those responsible for safety violations will be held accountable.
President Bola Tinubu also expressed his sorrow over the tragedy and directed a federal delegation to visit Jigawa State.
