A tragic tanker explosion along the Abuja-Kaduna expressway at Dikko has claimed the lives of more than 50 people, leaving several others injured and destroying properties worth millions of naira.
The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) confirmed the casualty count on Saturday.
The incident occurred at approximately 9 a.m. near the Dikko-Maje road, opposite the Baddegi fueling station.
According to NSEMA Director General Abdullahi Baba Arah, the explosion was triggered while transferring fuel from a crashed tanker carrying Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to another tanker. He explained:
“The tanker, loaded with PMS, crashed, and during the transfer of its contents to another tanker, the spilt fuel came into contact with a generator used to power the operation.
“This ignited a fire, resulting in the deaths of over 50 individuals, injuries to many others, and extensive property damage.”
Arah added that rescue operations are being conducted in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Suleja Local Government Emergency Committee, and local volunteers.
Injured victims have been taken to nearby hospitals for treatment, while efforts to recover bodies from the scene are ongoing.