Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago has expressed deep sadness over the loss of lives and property following an oil tanker explosion in Niger State.
The explosion resulted in the death of nearly 50 people and the burning of over 50 cows.
Cause of Niger Tanker Explosion
According to reports, the accident occurred on Sunday along the Lapai-Agaie road. This is about two kilometers from Dendo Community in Agaie Local Government Area.
It was caused by a head-on collision between a petrol tanker and a truck from Kano State, which was transporting people and cattle.
Meanwhile, Governor Bago, through his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, said he was deeply pained by the tragic event. He described it as an immense loss.
Niger State Governor Statement
He also urged residents to remain calm and advised road users to exercise caution and follow traffic regulations.
Furthermore, he said that this would help prevent such incidents in the future.
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“I am very sad and pained by this unfortunate incident and the colossal loss of lives and property.
“I wish to commiserate with the families of the bereaved and call for calm among the residents of the affected areas,” Bago said.
Also, he said the “State Government, through the Niger State Emergency Management Agency and other relevant organizations, has been mobilized to the scene for rescue operations and necessary actions”.
Bago concluded that the “road users must always be cautious and abide by traffic regulations to safeguard lives and property.
“I pray Allah will repose the souls of the departed and grant quick recovery to those injured”.
Casualty
Meanwhile, the 48 bodies recovered during the search and rescue operation have been given a mass burial.
According to Abdullahi Baba-Arab, Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), the trailer truck involved in the collision was traveling from Wudil in Kano State to Lagos.
The truck carried over 50 people and 50 cattle, all of which perished in the fire.
