Death toll from Nigerian fuel tanker explosion rises to 86

The death toll from a gasoline tanker explosion in north-central Nigeria has climbed to 86, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of January 18 near the Suleja area of Niger State when individuals attempted to siphon fuel from a crashed oil tanker, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

The explosion, reportedly triggered by a generator used during the transfer of gasoline into another truck, claimed the lives of those directly involved in the operation as well as bystanders who had gathered at the scene.

Hussaini Isah, a representative of NEMA, stated that 55 people sustained injuries in the blast and are currently receiving treatment in three hospitals within the Suleja area. The official also warned that the death toll could rise further due to the severity of injuries and the inability to ascertain an exact figure without forensic analysis.

“There were people that were burnt to ashes. How can we get that figure?” Isah remarked, highlighting the challenges in identifying victims.

The tragedy unfolded as a crowd gathered around the crashed tanker, including onlookers taking pictures, individuals scooping gasoline, and bystanders. Such incidents are common in Nigeria, where economic hardship and high fuel prices compel some to take risks for free gasoline, often with fatal consequences.

Fuel prices have surged in Africa’s most populous country since President Bola Tinubu’s administration removed subsidies on petroleum products over a year ago. While the government justified the policy as a measure to redirect resources toward developmental projects, it has caused widespread hardship for ordinary citizens.

Scooping fuel from fallen tankers, despite its dangers, has become a desperate act for some Nigerians looking to make a profit or secure personal use fuel. This practice, combined with the hazardous circumstances surrounding the Suleja incident, underscores the urgent need for safety awareness and economic reforms to mitigate such tragedies.

By Vugar Khalilov