MAIDUGURI, Nigeria – A devastating fuel tanker explosion in Niger State, Nigeria, has resulted in the deaths of at least 70 individuals and left many others injured. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, saw the tanker overturn and spill gasoline, leading to a catastrophic explosion that engulfed nearby individuals who had gathered to collect fuel.

Kumar Tsukwam, the sector commander for the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Niger State, reported that most victims were impoverished local residents who rushed towards the spilled fuel despite safety warnings. "A large crowd of people gathered to scoop fuel despite concerted efforts to stop them," Tsukwam stated, as the flames quickly spread.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed that recovery efforts have led to the retrieval of over 70 bodies from the explosion site, with dozens others suffering from severe burns. The governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago, described the tragedy as "worrisome, heartbreaking, and unfortunate."

This incident mirrors a similar tragedy in October 2024, when a fuel tanker explosion in Jigawa State claimed 147 lives, marking one of the worst such disasters in Nigeria's history. Reports indicate that the ongoing rise in fuel prices—having surged more than 400% since President Bola Tinubu eliminated a long-standing subsidy in May 2023—has exacerbated risks as residents seek to salvage valuable fuel.

In response to the growing frequency of such accidents, local authorities, including Bologi Ibrahim, a spokesperson for the Niger State governor, have urged residents to prioritize their safety when dealing with fuel tanker incidents. Firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze, allowing recovery operations to proceed under challenging conditions.

The National Emergency Management Authority continues to coordinate relief efforts, helping those injured during this harrowing event. Many victims are expected to be buried in accordance with Islamic rites, honoring their lives cut tragically short.

The fuel industry's precarious safety standards are increasingly under scrutiny, as numerous accidents result in loss of life while Nigerian citizens struggle with soaring living costs amidst national economic hardships. Lake State Governor Umaru Bago has pledged to enhance safety regulations surrounding fuel transportation and increase patrols on major highways to prevent further incidents.

For further details, refer to the reports by The Guardian and South China Morning Post.