The Nigerian police have confirmed that 105 people lost their lives in the tanker explosion that took place in Jigawa State.
The police also confirmed that 70 persons sustained injuries in the tragic incident.
The Spokesperson for the Jigawa State Police Command, DSP Lawan Shiisu Adam, gave the figures on Wednesday.
Adam said, “A tragic and devastating incident occurred on October 15, 2024, at about 2230hrs, involving a petrol tanker with registration number KMC 6412 F, driven by one Yusuf Mohd ‘m’ age 32yrs of Hotoro Quarters, Kano State.
“The tanker was traveling from Kano to Nguru, Yobe State, when the driver lost control near Khadija University in Majia Town, Taura LGA, causing it to overturn and spill fuel.
“The petrol entered through the drainage to the outskirts of the village.
“Unfortunately, villagers attempted to scoop petrol from the drainage, resulting in a flame that engulfed the area and many people were reportedly perished.
“Area Commander Ringim, Divisional Police Officer Gujungu and their men swiftly raced to the scene.”
The police said “105 corpses have been evacuated”.
Meanwhile, 70 injured persons were rushed to Ringim and Hadejia General Hospitals for medical attention.
“The fire was successfully extinguished through the combined efforts of police officers, firefighters, and good Samaritans,” he said.
