The Jigawa State Police Command has confirmed that a petrol tanker explosion late Tuesday night claimed the lives of over 90 people, with about 50 others hospitalized, in Majia Town, Taura Local Government Area of the state.
The incident occurred around 11:30 PM when the tanker from Kano heading to Nguru in Yobe State lost control near Khadija University, within Taura LGA.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Command, DSP Lawan Shiisu said despite the efforts of the police, who had cordoned off the area and issued warnings to the public, people resisted and started scooping the fuel, triggering a devastating explosion.
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Shiisu added that the police struggled to keep control of the scene, with many bystanders ignoring warnings and moving dangerously close to the accident site.
“The tanker, loaded with petrol, ignited shortly after the crash, causing an inferno that engulfed numerous people in the vicinity.”
“The injured were immediately rushed to General Hospital at Ringim, where medical personnel work around the clock to treat the victims. However, the death toll is likely to rise as several of the injured remain in critical condition.”
It was gathered that local authorities and religious leaders have agreed to conduct a mass burial for the victims later this morning.
