A devastating oil tanker explosion rocked Niger State on Saturday, leaving a trail of destruction and heartbreak.

Eyewitness accounts paint a grim picture of the aftermath, with numerous lives lost and many others severely injured. Reports suggest that up to 100 people may have perished, with several victims burned beyond recognition. The harrowing scene has plunged the local community into shock and mourning. Channels Television journalists who visited the site refrained from sharing explicit visuals due to the disturbing nature of the disaster.

Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, expressed profound sorrow over the incident. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, the governor described the explosion as "heartbreaking, worrisome, and unfortunate." He offered his condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

Governor Bago also stressed the importance of public safety, cautioning residents against engaging in hazardous activities like collecting fuel from overturned tankers, which often have fatal outcomes. To prevent future tragedies, he directed relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to take proactive measures. Additionally, he urged security personnel to safeguard the affected area and prioritize the safety of residents.

This catastrophic event serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of fuel scooping and the need for heightened safety awareness in communities.