FG mourns victims of Niger tanker explosion

In the aftermath of Saturday’s petrol tanker explosion at Dikko Junction in the Gurara Local Government Area, the federal government has conveyed its sympathies to the government and people of Niger.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction Prof. Nantewe Yilwatda characterised the incident as terrible, stating that it resulted in numerous casualties and substantial property damage.

The statement was released in Abuja by Rhoda Iliya, the ministry’s communication officer.

The minister issued a warning to drivers about the dangers of careless driving after expressing concern about the increasing number of tanker explosions in the nation.

At all times, Yilwatda emphasised, they must follow all driving laws.
“The regularity with which tanker explosions in the country cause casualties, injuries, and material destruction saddens me greatly,” Yilwatda expressed.

“My heart goes out to the people of this town who have suffered the tragic loss of so many dear ones in this terrible tragedy.”
He extended his sympathies to the victims’ loved ones and hoped the wounded would get well soon.

Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State and his staff, especially the State Emergency Management Agency, the Fire Service, and the Federal Road Safety Corps, were praised by the minister for their rapid response.

He extended his gratitude to the Nigeria Police Force and other kind Nigerians who helped get the victims out of the area.

The tragedy claimed the lives of 86 people, with 80 of them being laid to rest in a mass grave and the remaining bodies being returned to their families for burial, as reported by Mr. Abdullahi Baba-Arah, the Director-General of NSEMA.

One person has died and 55 have been injured at the Dikko healthcare centre.