Jigawa tanker fire incident: Committee submits report to governor, 209 lives lost
The Chairman of the Investigation Committee on the tanker fire incident in Majia, Jigawa State, DIG Hafizu Muhammad Inuwa (Retd), has submitted the committee’s findings to Governor Umar Namadi.
The tragedy, which occurred on October 14, 2024, claimed 209 lives, injured 38 individuals who remain hospitalized, and displaced 167 families.
The investigative committee, comprising government officials, security representatives, civil society groups, and community leaders, was tasked with uncovering the causes of the disaster, assessing the damage, and proposing preventive measures.
DIG Inuwa raised key findings during the report’s presentation, stating that several factors contributed to the fire, including damaged road infrastructure, night driving, and excessive speed.
The inferno was ignited when victims attempting to scoop spilled fuel caused friction between metallic containers and hard surfaces.
“The incident led to the destruction of properties worth millions of naira, alongside the heartbreaking loss of lives,” Inuwa reported, expressing the committee’s deep concern over the impact on affected families and communities.
Governor Namadi commended the committee’s thorough investigation and assured a review of the report for swift action. He acknowledged the committee’s efforts in engaging stakeholders, visiting health facilities, and consulting with affected communities.