An explosion tore through a crowd in northern Nigeria after a fuel tanker crashed late Tuesday, killing at least 147 people, officials reported on Wednesday. The tragedy unfolded in the town of Majiya, Jigawa state, when locals rushed to collect fuel spilling from the overturned tanker.
According to eyewitness accounts, the tanker veered off the road to avoid colliding with another vehicle, resulting in the crash. As news spread about the leaking fuel, scores of residents hurried to the scene with containers, hoping to gather the precious commodity. Moments later, a massive explosion erupted, engulfing the area in flames.
This incident marks one of the deadliest fuel-related accidents in Nigeria in recent years. The country is currently grappling with its worst economic crisis in a generation, making fuel a scarce and valuable resource for many. Such accidents are not uncommon, as people often risk their lives to collect fuel from compromised pipelines or vehicles, driven by economic hardship.
Local police confirmed the death toll and stated that emergency services were deployed to handle the aftermath. “We are deeply saddened by this tragic event,” a police spokesperson said. “Our thoughts are with the families of the victims.”
The tragedy highlights the pressing need for improved road safety measures and economic support for vulnerable communities in Nigeria. As the nation mourns the loss of so many lives, there are calls for authorities to implement strategies to prevent such disasters in the future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
