In the early hours of Sunday, a devastating tanker explosion occurred along the Lapai-Agaie road, just 2 kilometers from the Dendo Community in Agaie Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State. The tragic incident happened around 12:30 am when a petrol tanker, fully loaded with fuel, collided with a truck transporting passengers and cattle.

The truck, which was traveling from Wudil in Kano State to Lagos, suffered a massive impact from the collision, leading to an enormous explosion. The resulting fire also engulfed two other vehicles, including a crane truck and a pickup van, further amplifying the destruction.

Early reports reveal that over 48 people perished in the blaze, and more than 50 cattle were also burned alive. A mass burial for the 48 victims took place on Sunday, while rescue operations continued. Many bodies remain trapped in the charred vehicles as emergency responders from the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) and Local Government Emergency Committees (LGEMCs) search the scene.

NSEMA’s Director General, Abdullahi Baba-arah, released a statement extending condolences to the families of those affected and assuring the public that every effort is being made to manage the aftermath of this tragic accident.

Governor Umaru Bago expressed deep sorrow over the incident. In a statement through his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, the governor conveyed his heartfelt sympathy to the families who lost loved ones. He urged road users to exercise caution and adhere to traffic regulations to prevent such tragic accidents in the future.

Governor Bago also prayed for the souls of the departed and wished a swift recovery for the injured.