Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State visited the site of the tragic tanker explosion in Majia town, Taura Local Government Area, on Wednesday morning, where 95 people were confirmed dead and over 50 others injured.
Accompanied by top government officials, the governor expressed his condolences to the families of the victims at the scene of the incident. Departing from Government House Dutse at 10:00 a.m., Governor Namadi offered prayers for the departed, asking Almighty Allah to grant their souls eternal rest in Jannatul Firdaus.
In addition to offering condolences, the governor pledged that the state government would take full responsibility for the medical treatment of the injured. He also assured the public that all necessary measures would be taken to provide support in the aftermath of the tragedy.
The Jigawa State Police Command confirmed the tragic loss of life, stating that over 95 people perished and 50 others were seriously injured after a petrol tanker overturned in Majia village, leading to a massive explosion. The incident occurred around 12:30 a.m. on Wednesday, when locals gathered to scoop fuel from the fallen tanker before it ignited into flames.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Lawan Shishu Adam, provided further details:
“Today, a petrol tanker traveling from Port Harcourt to Nguru in Yobe State lost control and overturned in Majia village, Taura Local Government Area, at approximately 12:30 a.m. The tanker’s contents spilled into the gutters and drainages, and villagers began collecting the fuel when it suddenly caught fire.”
“As a result, 95 people were confirmed dead, and 50 others have been hospitalized and are currently receiving treatment,” Adam confirmed.
The police spokesperson urged residents to exercise caution and avoid approaching similar situations in the future, emphasizing the dangers of such incidents.