60 burnt to death as petroleum tanker exploded in Niger (Photo)

…Governor Bago Condole victims’ families

Over 60 people were said to have been roasted to death in the popular Dikko junction along the ever busy Abuja-Kaduna highway in Gurara local government of Niger state when a petrol laden tanker capsized in the early morning of Saturday.

Eye witness said the petrol tanker which was heading from Lagos to a far northern state suddenly got stocked on a bad spot of the road right at junction and in an attempt by the driver to maneuver his way through it led to the tanker overturning and its content and spilled over the road.

Tragedy however struck when youths in the area scrambled to scoop the fuel from the fallen petrol tanker when suddenly it exploded into flame, killing unspecified number of the scoopers and other passerby. Vehicles, motorcycles, Shops and other businesses worth millions of naira where all affected by the inferno.

Unspecified number of people equally sustained various degree of burnt from the inferno, and are currently being treated in a government facilities in the area.

Meanwhile State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago expresses shock over the fuel tanker explosion, describing it sad and unfortunate.

The Governor in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, said the frequent fuel tanker accident and explosion, leading to loss of innocent lives is not only worrisome but heartbreaking.

He then sympathized with the families of the victims of the explosion and prays that Allah will grant the souls of the departed eternal rest and heal the injured.

While directing all the relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to respond to the disaster and do what is necessary, he urged the relevant Security Agents to ensure the area.

He equally cautioned the people to always be responsible and give priority to their safety.

Daily Sun