Just in: Death toll rises in Niger State tanker explosion as victims battle severe burns

The death toll from the recent tanker explosion along Dikko Junction in Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State has risen, with ten more victims succumbing to severe burns.

Seven passed away at the General Hospital in Suleja, while three others died at the General Hospital in Sabon-Wuse, according to Abdulberqy Ebbo, Special Adviser to the Niger Governor on Digital Communications.

At the General Hospital, Suleja, 43 patients were admitted, of which seven have died. Three patients have been discharged for home recuperation, ten were referred for specialist care in Abuja, and 23 remain under treatment for varying degrees of burns.

Similarly, at the General Hospital, Sabon-Wuse, 23 patients were initially admitted. Three succumbed to their injuries, and 19 were discharged against medical advice by relatives. One critically ill patient awaits transfer to Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital in Abuja.

An 18-member multi-disciplinary medical team, led by Dr. Tukur Bello, Commissioner for Secondary and Tertiary Healthcare, and supported by other senior health advisers, is coordinating urgent care for the victims.

Following an assessment, many patients were deemed in need of intensive care, prompting their referral to tertiary healthcare facilities in Abuja.

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has directed the provision of free medical services and deployed sufficient healthcare workers to manage the crisis effectively.