There was a report on Tuesday that at least 35 people died and 46 others sustained injuries following a tanker explosion that occurred in Katcha Local Government Area of Niger State.
The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has expressed sorrow over the tragic tanker explosion that occurred along the Bida-Agaie road in Niger State on Tuesday, resulting in multiple deaths, injuries, and property destruction.
A2zgist reported on Tuesday that at least 35 people died and 46 others sustained injuries following a tanker explosion that occurred in Katcha Local Government Area of Niger State.
The incident occurred around 11am near Essan and Badeggi communities along the Bida–Agaie road.
Aishat Saadu, the spokesperson for the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Niger State, confirmed the report to A2zgist, saying, “46 injured taken to FMC Bida, 35 dead.”
She described it as a lone crash.
Several people were reportedly scooping fuel from a fallen tanker when it exploded, triggering a massive fire that engulfed many individuals.
Numerous victims were burnt beyond recognition, while the injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
The Chairman of the Niger State Tanker Drivers Association and National Ex-Officio of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Comrade Farouk Kawo, described the tragedy as “devastating and avoidable,” according to Channels TV.
According to Kawo, the tanker was conveying petroleum products from Lagos to the northern part of the country when it crashed. He lamented that more than 30 tanker accidents had been recorded along the Bida–Agaie route in October alone, blaming the high number of crashes on the poor state of the road.
He also expressed concern over youths rushing to scoop fuel from accident scenes despite repeated warnings.
In a statement jointly signed by its National Executive President, Comrade Williams Akporeha, and General Secretary, Comrade Afolabi Olawale, on Wednesday, NUPENG said it was profoundly saddened by the tragic incident.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to His Excellency, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, and the people of Essan and Badeggi communities in Katcha Local Government Area, Niger State,” NUPENG said.
“The significant loss of life, injuries sustained, and damage to property in this incident have left our Union leadership and membership in a state of collective mourning.
“We offer our full solidarity to the affected families and communities and pray for the souls of the departed and the swift healing of the injured.”
NUPENG reaffirmed its commitment to working with relevant authorities to prevent future occurrences, stressing that the incident underscored the urgent need for rehabilitation of Nigeria’s dilapidated road network.
“In line with our role as a responsible organization, NUPENG reaffirms its dedication to supporting the Niger State Government and all stakeholders in implementing effective preventive measures,” the Union stated.
“We emphasize that this disaster highlights the critical necessity for immediate and sustained action to address the deteriorating state of key roadways across the nation.”
The Union also lamented that similar fatal incidents persist despite continuous collaboration with safety agencies to educate the public about the dangers of interfering with accident scenes involving petroleum tankers.
“It is disheartening that such fatal events continue to occur, despite our ongoing collaborative efforts with safety agencies to educate the public on the dangers of interfering with accident scenes involving flammable substances,” the statement added.
Reiterating its commitment to safety in the petroleum sector, NUPENG urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and prioritize safety at all times.
“NUPENG remains steadfast in its pursuit of a safer transportation ecosystem and calls upon all Nigerians to prioritize safety and maintain vigilance.
“A concerted effort is essential to eradicate these preventable tragedies. Our solidarity remains constant, for the Union makes us strong,” NUPENG stated.
