The Niger State Government has carried out a mass burial for victims of the petrol tanker explosion in Essa village, Katcha Local Government Area, and announced comprehensive free medical treatment for survivors of the tragedy.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Bologi Ibrahim, disclosed in a Thursday statement that the decision followed a visit by a state government delegation, led by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Murtala Bagana, to the scene of the explosion and the hospitals treating the injured.
“A mass burial for the deceased victims was conducted in Katcha with a special prayer for the repose of their souls and quick recovery for the injured.
“The state government confirmed that normalcy has returned to the affected community and reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and well-being of all residents,” the statement partly read.
According to the government, about 50 people sustained injuries in the incident, with some receiving medical attention for burns and others for inhalation-related complications.
“The Niger State Government has approved comprehensive free medical care for all the surviving victims of the Essa tanker explosion.
“Out of the about 50 injured persons, some are receiving medical attention for burns, others for inhalation-related injuries at various health facilities such as the Federal Medical Center (FMC) Bida and General Hospitals Bida as well as Agaie, while those severely injured are in the National Hospital Abuja, Gwagwalada Specialist, and FMC Jabi,” the statement added.
The government further revealed that drugs and medical supplies worth over ₦10 million had been provided to hospitals treating the victims, alongside cash donations to affected families.
“The state government has also provided drugs and medical supplies worth over ₦10 million to support hospitals treating the victims and presented cash donations to the affected families receiving care in the hospitals,” it stated.
It commended the management of FMC Bida for their swift response, as well as the State Ministry of Health, Emergency Response Teams, and Katcha Local Government Authority for coordinating rescue and medical operations.
“The state government commended the management of the FMC Bida for their swift response and professional support while appreciating the State Ministry of Health, Emergency Response Teams, and the Katcha Local Government Authority, who are jointly coordinating the rescue and medical operations,” the government said.
Residents were also warned to desist from scooping fuel from fallen tankers, with authorities cautioning that such acts endanger lives.