Oil tanker explosion in Nigeria kills at least 94 people

On October 16, reports from Abuja confirmed a tragic incident in Nigeria’s northern Jigawa State. Local police announced that a tanker truck explosion occurred late on the night of October 15, resulting in at least 94 fatalities and over 50 injuries.

According to Nigerian police, the explosion took place around 11:30 PM. As of October 16, authorities anticipate that the death toll may rise. Eyewitness accounts described chaotic scenes where large crowds had gathered near the accident site.

The explosion happened on a highway close to a local university. It was reported that the tanker driver lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn. Fuel spilled out and flowed into a nearby drainage ditch, attracting residents who rushed to the scene to collect the fuel. Despite police attempts to disperse the crowd, a devastating explosion ensued, igniting a fire.

Local authorities in Jigawa State have announced plans for a large-scale funeral for the victims, drawing community members together in mourning.

Media reports have highlighted that Nigeria faces frequent traffic accidents, largely due to poor road conditions, as well as issues like overloading and speeding. The country also lacks a sufficient railway system to transport hazardous materials safely. Just last month on September 8, a collision between a truck and a tanker in central Nigeria resulted in at least 48 deaths.