AT least 49 people lost their lives in a devastating fuel truck explosion on a Nigerian highway, according to the latest reports from local authorities. The incident occurred on Sunday in the north-central region of Nigeria, marking one of the deadliest road accidents in recent memory.
The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) of Niger State reported that the tragedy unfolded when a fuel tanker truck collided with another vehicle transporting both passengers and cattle. The impact triggered a massive explosion, engulfing several other vehicles that were unfortunate enough to be in the vicinity.
Abdullahi Baba-Arab, director-general of the SEMA confirmed the grim death toll and noted that emergency responders were still working to clear the scene of the catastrophe. The scale of the disaster has sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond.
This tragic event comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with fuel-related challenges. Just last week, the state-owned NNPC Ltd implemented a significant 39% increase in gasoline prices, the second major hike in just over a year. Despite these measures, fuel shortages persist, forcing many Nigerians to endure long queues at gas stations across major cities and towns.
The incident underscores the ongoing concerns about road safety and fuel transportation in Nigeria, a country heavily reliant on its oil industry. As investigations into the cause of the collision continue, questions are likely to arise about the enforcement of safety regulations for fuel transportation on Nigeria’s highways.
Nigerians from other states took to social media to extend their condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives in the terrible accident. As the nation mourns, there were also calls for improved road safety measures and stricter regulations to prevent such tragedies in the future.
