The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has deployed an emergency rescue team to Dikko Junction along the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway in Niger State after a devastating tanker fire explosion.
The incident, which occurred Saturday morning along Dikko-Maje Road near Baddegi Station, resulted in over 70 deaths and 56 injuries. The explosion reportedly began when a tanker carrying Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) crashed and spilled its contents during an attempt to transfer the fuel. A generator used in the process ignited the spill, causing a massive inferno.
Rescue Operations and Condolences
NEMA Director General Mrs. Zubaida Umar expressed deep sympathy for the victims and their families, condemning the poor handling of spilt fuel. She emphasized the agency’s commitment to public safety, highlighting ongoing awareness campaigns about the risks of unsafe fuel transfer practices.
NEMA’s Minna Operation Office, led by Mr. Hussaini Isah, is collaborating with first responders to evacuate victims and assist the affected community. Injured individuals have been taken to nearby hospitals, while rescue operations continue.
Calls for Safety and Regulation
The Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) also mourned the tragedy, with Chairman Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State describing the incident as a “heartbreaking national loss.” He urged stricter enforcement of safety regulations for transporting combustible materials and praised the swift response of emergency services.
“This incident underscores the need for enhanced safety measures and regulatory frameworks to prevent such disasters,” Governor AbdulRazaq stated, extending condolences to the people of Niger State and affected families.
