More people confirmed dead in Niger petrol tanker blast

No fewer than 77 people have now been confirmed dead following a tragic tanker explosion in Suleja, Niger State, North Central Nigeria.

The incident occurred on Saturday after a fuel tanker overturned, spilling its contents.

Moments after the spill, locals rushed to collect the leaking fuel. The tanker exploded, killing dozens and leaving 25 others injured, including rescuers, officials reported.

Those injured are currently receiving treatment in nearby hospitals, according to the emergency management agency.

Fuel tanker explosions are a recurring issue in Nigeria, often attributed to poorly maintained vehicles and the country’s deteriorating road infrastructure.

This disaster follows similar incidents in recent months. Two weeks prior, a tanker explosion in Delta State killed five people. In October, at least 153 people died while attempting to collect fuel from a leaking tanker.

Nigeria’s worsening fuel crisis has exacerbated the desperation among citizens. Fuel prices have surged by over 400% in the last 18 months due to bold economic reforms implemented by President Bola Tinubu, including the removal of longstanding fuel subsidies.

The reforms, aimed at bolstering the economy, have pushed millions into poverty, leaving many with no choice but to resort to dangerous measures for survival.