At least 126 people were killed in a petrol tanker explosion in Nigeria. On Saturday (January 18) the moving tanker suddenly overturned and spilled oil in the Niger province of the country. Many people were injured in the explosion when they went forward to collect them. British news agency Reuters reported this.
Kumar Sukwam, sector commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps in Niger State, said most of the dead were poor local people. When the truck overturned and spilled oil, they went forward to collect it and were hit by an explosion.
He also said that the firemen were able to extinguish the fire.
Earlier in October, at least 147 people were killed in another similar accident in Jigawa province.
Nigeria's National Emergency Management Authority said in a statement that 70 bodies have been recovered so far. Besides, 56 people were injured. More than 15 shops nearby were destroyed in the accident.
The statement added that the injured have been taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Besides, efforts are on to recover the bodies of the dead.
A witness told Reuters local residents and authorities were seen digging up graves to bury the dead in accordance with religious rites.
Nigeria is one of the most densely populated countries in Africa. Its Niger province is largely Muslim-majority. The people of Nigeria are already constantly struggling to survive due to the exorbitant cost of living. But this country is the highest producer of oil in the African continent.
Petrol prices in Nigeria have risen by more than 400 percent since President Bola Tinubu took office in May 2023, scrapping a decade-old subsidy system.
Niger Provincial Governor's Spokesperson, Bolozi Ibrahim, said that in the event of an accident involving a petrol tanker, local residents should prioritize their own safety.
