One terrible accident happen for Jigawa state, northern Nigeria, where fuel tanker explode and kill at least 147 people. The tanker crash happen late on Tuesday in Majiya town, Taura Local Government Area, after the driver lose control and the tanker overturn, spilling petrol everywhere.
Residents of the area rush to scoop the leaking fuel, but things take a deadly turn when the fuel explode, causing a massive fire. Student Sanusi Lawan, who was part of the crowd, describe the scene as “a scene of horror” with people running while on fire and shouting for help.
The death toll, which stand at 147, only account for bodies buried in one mass grave, according to local government chairman Hambali Zarga. He warn that the toll is likely to rise as more bodies have been buried elsewhere, and around 140 injured residents are being treated in nearby hospitals.
The Nigerian Medical Association urge doctors to rush to emergency rooms to help with the influx of patients. In Abuja, Nigerian lawmakers observe a minute of silence in the Senate to honor the victims.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu pledge to support those affected and commit to a swift and comprehensive review of fuel transportation safety protocols across the country. The accident highlight the desperate situation in Nigeria, where fuel has become a precious commodity due to soaring prices and frequent shortages.
The roads in Nigeria are often poorly maintained, leading to frequent accidents involving tankers. Last month, at least 48 people were killed in a similar incident in north-central Nigeria.
