FOLLOWING the tanker explosion at Dikko Junction, Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State on Saturday, the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) has put the number of deaths from the incident at 86.
According to a press statement issued by NSEMA Director General Abdullahi Baba-Arah, the remains of the deceased were recovered and buried in a coordinated effort by NSEMA, Gurara LGA authorities, and volunteers.
Of the deceased, 80 were buried in a mass grave at the Dikko Primary Healthcare (PHC) premises. Five others were handed over to their families for burial within the town, and one individual succumbed to injuries at the Dikko PHC.
The mass burial, a somber and challenging task, took place between 5 p.m. and midnight, involving brave and compassionate volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure the proper handling of the victims.
The number of injured individuals has risen to 55, with one fatality recorded at the healthcare facility in Dikko.
NSEMA, in collaboration with relevant agencies, continues to manage the aftermath of the disaster while providing support to the injured and affected families.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of such explosions, calling for increased safety measures and public awareness to prevent future occurrences.
Further updates will be provided as investigations and recovery efforts continue.
Following the incident, the Niger State Government directed that no vehicle coming from the Maje axis should be allowed to pass through the Dikko Bridge.
Governor Umaru Bago gave the directive when he visited the scene of the explosion around Dikko Junction, Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State.
The Governor, who decried the recklessness of some drivers, said they should follow under the bridge and take a U-turn appropriately.
He enjoined the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps to establish a detachment in the area to ensure the enforcement of the directive while calling on relevant transport unions to cooperate with them.
Tinubu Mourns
President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the explosion.
According to a statement by Tinubu’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, on Sunday, the President expressed his condolences to the families affected, as well as to the government and people of Niger State.
He underscored the tragic and preventable nature of the incident, as many victims were said to be those scooping Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from the overturned tanker.
Onanuga said that the President has directed the provision of comprehensive medical care to the injured and instructed security and road safety authorities to implement measures to avert similar incidents.
He added that Tinubu strongly advised all citizens to exercise caution and avoid approaching accident sites, especially those involving fuel-laden vehicles, due to their highly explosive nature.
Additionally, the President has mandated the National Orientation Agency to initiate a nationwide educational campaign. This campaign will raise public awareness about the severe risks and environmental dangers of scooping fuel from fallen tankers.