A tragic tanker explosion in Niger State has claimed the lives of at least 30 people and left many others injured, sparking widespread grief and renewed calls for urgent intervention. The devastating incident occurred on Tuesday morning in the Essa community, specifically affecting the Essan and Badeggi areas along the Bida-Agaie road in Katcha Local Government Area. Eyewitnesses reported that the victims were engaged in the dangerous act of scooping petroleum products from an overturned tanker when the explosion occurred, leaving several bodies burnt beyond recognition.

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, expressed his profound condolences to the people of Essa community, describing the incident as “worrisome, unfortunate, and pathetic.” In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Bologi, Governor Bago lamented the recurring danger posed by residents who approach fallen tankers to scoop their contents despite numerous public sensitization efforts. He offered prayers for the souls of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to those injured, who were subsequently taken to the Federal Medical Centre, Bida, and other nearby hospitals for medical attention. The governor also commended the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) for their prompt response and assured continued support for the affected families.

Farouk Mohammed Kawo, the Niger State Chairman of the Tanker Drivers’ Union and NUPENG, confirmed the incident, stating that the tanker was en route from Lagos to the northern part of the country, transporting petroleum products. Kawo highlighted an alarming trend, revealing that over 30 tanker trailers have been involved in accidents in the same area during the month of October alone. He echoed the governor's concern over the community's persistent habit of scooping oil from accident sites, citing a recent incident where residents were seen collecting contents from an overturned groundnut oil tanker. The chairman made an urgent appeal to Governor Bago’s administration to grade the affected road to enhance safety and prevent further loss of lives and property. He emphasized the critical need for government intervention to address the frequent accidents occurring on roads across the state.