A fuel-laden tanker has crashed leading to a massive explosion while at least 90 people have reportedly died, with more than 50 others hospitalised in Majiya village, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
It was learnt that villagers were scooping fuel from the overturned tanker when the explosion ignited with the resulting fireball devastating the area, causing severe injuries and fatalities among those present.
Confirming the incident, DSP Lawal Shiisu Adams, spokesperson for the Jigawa State Police Command, stated that the police are currently conducting investigations into the incident and will provide further updates as information becomes available.
According to an eye witness, “Today (Wednesday) a petrol tanker from Port Harcourt going to Nguru in Yobe state reached Majiya village of Taura local government area at around 12:30am the driver lost control at Majiya and falls down.
“The content in the tanker flooded gutters and drainages in village. The villagers started fetching the fuel where the petrol was and it went in flames.
“As a result 95 people confirmed died and 50 have been hospitalised receiving treatment,” he added.
That is a common situation in Nigeria where rickety tankers travel along badly damaged roads breaking or falling down before reaching destination with the contents pouring out for people around to scoop.