A tragic incident unfolded in Majia town, located in the Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State, where a petrol tanker exploded, resulting in the deaths of 94 individuals and leaving 50 others injured. The explosion occurred late on Tuesday night, around 11 PM, when the driver lost control of the vehicle, leading to a catastrophic crash.
Witnesses reported that as the tanker overturned, its contents spilled into the surrounding area. Local residents, drawn by the sight of the fuel, rushed out to collect it. Unfortunately, this led to a devastating explosion shortly thereafter, igniting a massive inferno.
The tanker, identified by the number plate KMC 6412 F, was driven by Yusuf Mohammad, who had set off from Kano, heading towards Nguru in Yobe State. The details of the incident highlight the dangers associated with petrol tanker accidents, particularly when locals attempt to gather spilled fuel.
DSP Lawan Shiisu Adam, the Police Public Relations Officer in Jigawa, confirmed the tragic event to news reporters in Dutse the following day. He stated that the injured victims were promptly transported to Ringim General Hospital for medical attention.
The explosion resulted in immediate fatalities, with 94 people losing their lives on the spot. Additionally, 50 individuals sustained severe injuries and were rushed to both Ringim and Hadejia General Hospitals for urgent care.
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In response to the tragedy, Jigawa State’s Commissioner of Police, A.T Abdullahi, expressed his condolences to the residents of Majia town and the broader community. He emphasized the need for citizens to exercise caution and avoid approaching the scenes of petrol tanker accidents.
The police commissioner’s remarks serve as a reminder of the inherent dangers present in such situations, where the combination of spilled fuel and crowds can lead to catastrophic outcomes. He urged the public to prioritize their safety and refrain from gathering at accident sites.
This incident underscores the urgent need for increased awareness regarding the risks associated with petrol tanker crashes and the importance of adhering to safety protocols to prevent further tragedies in the future.
