Jigawa Tanker explosion claims 105 lives, 55 hospitalized

At least 105 people have been confirmed dead following a petrol tanker explosion in Majiya town, located in the Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State. Shiisu Adam, the Public Relations Officer of the state Police Command, shared this information during a telephone interview with NIGERIA NEWS 247 on Wednesday.

He reported that approximately 55 individuals sustained various injuries and were admitted to Ringim General Hospital. “As I speak, the casualty count stands at about 105, with 55 injured, an increase from the 50 previously reported,” he stated. The incident occurred around 11:30 PM on Tuesday when the tanker driver lost control near Khadija University. The vehicle was en route from Kano to Nguru town in Yobe State when the explosion took place.

Witnesses noted that many people rushed to the scene to collect spilled fuel, which contributed to the high number of casualties. Some injured individuals have also been transferred to the Federal Medical Centre in Birnin Kudu due to bed shortages at Ringim General Hospital.

Plans are underway for a mass burial, as many of the deceased were burned beyond recognition.