The Niger State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating petrol tanker explosion that occurred on Tuesday in Essa community, Katcha Local Government Area, claiming dozens of lives and leaving many others injured.
In a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Murtala Bagana, the government extended its heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families, affirming solidarity during this time of grief.
“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn with the people of Essa and the surrounding communities. This is a painful loss for our state. We stand in solidarity with all those affected,” Bagana said.
Following the directive of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, a high-powered delegation led by Bagana visited both the accident scene and the hospitals where survivors are being treated. He confirmed that the governor had approved free and comprehensive medical treatment for all victims of the explosion.
Bagana explained that those with critical injuries are being transferred to the National Hospital in Gwagwalada for advanced care, while others are receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Bida and Agaie General Hospital.
While commiserating with the bereaved families, Bagana cautioned residents against the recurring and dangerous act of scooping fuel from fallen tankers, a practice that has repeatedly led to tragic outcomes across the nation.
“We mourn with the affected families and pray for the souls of the departed. We also appeal to residents to avoid the dangerous act of scooping fuel from accident scenes. Our administration remains fully committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our people,” he stated.
The Niger State Government reaffirmed its dedication to improving road safety, emergency response systems, and road rehabilitation efforts across the state to avert similar tragedies in the future.
The explosion, which occurred after a petrol-laden tanker overturned on the deteriorated Bida–Badeggi–Agaie Road, reportedly ignited as residents attempted to scoop fuel from the spilled contents.
According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the death toll has risen to 42, while over 60 others sustained varying degrees of burns. The victims include nine men, 24 women, and nine children. Emergency response teams from the police, DSS, NSCDC, FRSC, and local volunteers were deployed to assist in rescue operations, though several people remain unaccounted for.
Community leaders and eyewitnesses attributed the tragedy to the poor state of the highway and appealed to both the state and federal governments to expedite road repairs to prevent future disasters.
What You Should Know
The Niger State Government has pledged full medical support for victims of the Essa tanker explosion that claimed 42 lives and injured more than 60 people.
The tragedy occurred when residents attempted to scoop fuel from an overturned tanker along the dilapidated Bida–Badeggi–Agaie Road. Governor Bago’s administration has vowed to strengthen emergency response and rehabilitate major roads to prevent similar incidents.
Authorities continue rescue efforts as some residents remain missing, while officials urge Nigerians to avoid risky acts at accident scenes to protect lives and property.
