The death toll from Saturday’s tragic petrol tanker explosion in Niger State has risen to 98, with 69 injured and 20 shops destroyed by the ensuing fire.
Update on Casualties
As of Sunday, the reported death toll was 86, with 55 injured. However, the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) Director General, Abdullahi Baba-Arah, provided updated figures on Monday, stating:
“More deaths have been recorded from the fire incident. The latest figure is now 98 deaths, 69 injured, and 20 shops burnt down.”
The incident occurred when a fuel tanker overturned and spilt petrol, leading to an explosion as residents attempted to scoop the spilled fuel.
Injured Victims
- General Hospital, Suleja:
- Of the 43 injured victims, 7 have succumbed to their injuries.
- 10 patients were referred to specialist care in Abuja.
- 3 patients were satisfactorily treated and discharged.
- General Hospital, Sabon-Wuse:
- 3 victims out of the 23 admitted have died.
Government Response
The Niger State government has pledged to cover the treatment costs for all injured victims. Additionally, the Federal Government has committed to bearing the expenses for those referred to Abuja for specialist care.
Incident Details
The explosion occurred on Saturday morning when a speeding fuel tanker crashed, spilling petrol on the road. Residents rushed to collect the fuel, but the tanker caught fire, leading to devastating consequences.
Victims who perished in the tragedy have been buried in a mass grave due to the scale of the incident.
Condolences and Probes
- Condolences have poured in from across Nigeria, with calls for improved safety measures in handling fuel transportation.
- The Federal Government has established a committee to investigate the cause of the accident and recommend measures to prevent similar tragedies.
Community Impact
The tragedy has left a significant impact on the affected community:
- 69 injured victims are still receiving treatment, many in critical condition.
- 20 shops were completely destroyed, adding to the economic losses faced by residents.
Conclusion
This devastating incident serves as a grim reminder of the risks associated with unsafe fuel transportation and the dangers of fuel scooping. Authorities have promised to address these challenges, while victims and their families await justice and support in the aftermath of the tragedy.
