FG mourns victims of Niger tanker explosion

 Federal Government Mourns Victims of Niger Tanker Explosion, Calls for Caution

The Federal Government has extended its condolences to the government and people of Niger State following the devastating petrol tanker explosion that occurred on Saturday at Dikko Junction in Gurara Local Government Area.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nantewe Yilwatda, described the incident as a tragic event that resulted in numerous fatalities and significant property damage.

The statement, released in Abuja by the ministry’s Information Officer, Rhoda Iliya, comes amid reports that the death toll from the explosion has risen to 86, while 55 others sustained injuries and are receiving medical treatment.

Expressing deep concern over the recurring tanker explosions in Nigeria, the minister urged motorists to exercise greater caution and adhere strictly to road traffic regulations to prevent similar tragedies.

“The frequent occurrence of tanker explosions across the country is deeply troubling, leading to unnecessary loss of lives, injuries, and destruction of property,” Yilwatda lamented.

“I stand in solidarity with the affected community as they mourn the loss of their loved ones in this heartbreaking incident,” he added.

The minister also conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families and wished the injured a swift recovery.

Commending the prompt response of Niger State Governor Umaru Bago and his team, Yilwatda praised the efforts of the State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), the Fire Service, and the Federal Road Safety Corps in managing the crisis. He also acknowledged the Nigeria Police Force and other concerned individuals who assisted in the evacuation and rescue efforts.

According to NSEMA’s Director-General, Abdullahi Baba-Arah, the explosion claimed 86 lives, with 80 victims buried in a mass grave while the remaining were handed over to their families for burial. The number of injured persons has risen to 55, with one additional fatality recorded at the healthcare facility in Dikko.

The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to improving road safety measures and enhancing emergency response systems to mitigate future occurrences of such disasters.