…as tanker explodes in Ogun
CITIZENS COMPASS –A petrol tanker on Wednesday, exploded in Jigawa State leading to the death of about 90 persons as 50 others were hospitalised.
It occurred at Majiya Town, Taura Local Government Area of the State.
The explosion occurred at y 12:30 a.m, when the driver of the tanker, travelling from Kano to Nguru in Yobe State, lost control near Khadija University, Majiya.
It was gathered that some residents not minding the consequences, swooped on the tanker and began to scoop the product until there was a spark.
Confirming the incident, spokesperson, Jigawa State Police Command, DSP Lawan Adam, said some residents were scooping petrol when a spark was noticed.
He said the explosion occurred during the scooping of petrol from the overturned tanker and this spread widely to adjourning areas.
According to him, the explosion killed 94 people on the spot and left 50 others injured. “The incident left another 50 people severely injured, who were then rushed to Ringim and Hadejia General Hospitals for treatment.”
Jigawa State Commissioner of Police, AT Abdullahi, expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and the entire people of Jigawa State.
“This is a heartbreaking moment for us all,” he said. “We share in the pain and sorrow of the families affected. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the bereaved.”
“We appeal to the public to notify security agencies or relevant stakeholders when such accidents occur to prevent loss of life. Safety must be our priority,” he added.
A mass burial was later organised for the victims.
A similar incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday at Ibafo, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
The incident left several individuals injured and sparked panic among residents.
It occurred when a petrol – laden tanker overturned in front of a commercial.
This resulted in widespread destruction where vehicles, houses, and livestock worth millions of naira were destroyed.
