It has emerged that the generator powering the transloading of petrol from a fallen tanker to another caused the explosion that resulted in the Niger inferno tragedy which claimed numerous lives and left many injured, MyEngineers reports
The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) initially reported 50 deaths, later revising the figure to 77. Other sources, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), reported varying casualty numbers, with some placing the death toll at 70.
Dozens more sustained severe burns and were hospitalized in Suleja, Wuse, and other nearby health facilities.
A statement by the Director-General of the Agency, Abdullahi Baba Arah, said the explosion took place at about 9 a m. along Dikko-Maje Road, opposite Baddegi Filling Station.
“The incident occurred when a tanker loaded with PMS crashed, and an attempt was made by the drivers to transfer its contents to a second tanker.
“In the process, the spilling petrol came in contact with a generator that was used to power the transfer process.
“It triggered an explosion of flames that has caused over 50 deaths, injured many and destroyed properties estimated in millions.
“At present, NSEMA, in collaboration with NEMA, Suleja LGA Emergency Committee, and good-hearted volunteers are carrying out search, rescue and recovery operation to rescue the injured who have been moved to hospital for treatment and recover the copses of the deceased,” the statement added.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene where residents, primarily youths and some women, rushed to collect spilled fuel before the transfer began. Despite warnings about the inherent dangers, they continued scooping the fuel. The subsequent explosion engulfed the scoopers, the two tankers, and the surrounding area, resulting in many victims being burned beyond recognition.
The FRSC corroborated the account, stating that a large crowd had gathered to collect the spilled fuel when the tanker suddenly exploded, engulfing a second tanker. They reported recovering 60 bodies from the scene, primarily fuel scavengers.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), chaired by Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, expressed deep sorrow and visited the explosion site.
In a statement on the incident, by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaiye, the NGF Chairman expressed shock at the number of casualties and the magnitude of the burns suffered by the survivors.
The NGF conveyed condolences to Governor Umar Bago, the bereaved families, and those injured. They emphasized the importance of caution and respect for life, especially during dangerous situations like fuel spills. The forum offered prayers for the deceased and wished a swift recovery for the injured.
“Again, we call on our compatriots to act with extreme caution and absolute respect for life at all times, and especially in time of grave danger such as during petrol spill.
“The Forum prays for the repose of the souls of the dead victims,” the statement said.