The death toll from a tragic gasoline tanker explosion in the Suleja area of Niger State, Nigeria, has climbed to 98, according to the country’s emergency response agency on Monday.
The explosion occurred early Saturday morning when individuals attempted to transfer gasoline from a crashed tanker to another truck using a generator. The operation ignited a blast that killed those involved in the transfer and nearby bystanders.
Hussaini Isah, the National Emergency Management Agency’s (NEMA) head of operations for Niger State, stated that the number of casualties could increase further as authorities continue their investigations. “The death toll keeps changing,” he told the Associated Press.
Isah explained that the high number of casualties was due to a large crowd at the scene, including people taking photographs, onlookers, and those attempting to scoop gasoline from the wreckage.
Gasoline prices in Nigeria have skyrocketed since the government removed fuel subsidies over a year ago under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. While the policy was aimed at redirecting resources toward development, it has led to widespread hardship.
The practice of scooping fuel from fallen tankers is common in Nigeria, as many see it as an opportunity to obtain free gasoline for personal use or resale. Unfortunately, such incidents have repeatedly resulted in fatal explosions.
Authorities are urging citizens to avoid such dangerous practices to prevent further loss of life.
