The death toll from the tanker explosion at Dikko Junction in Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State has risen to 90, with 80 of the victims being buried in a mass grave.
The explosion occurred on Saturday, and the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) has confirmed that 90 people have died as a result of the disaster.
The remains were recovered and buried after a coordinated effort between NSEMA, local authorities, and volunteers.
The mass burial took place at the Dikko Primary Healthcare premises between 5 p.m. and midnight, with the help of volunteers who worked tirelessly to manage the situation.
Five bodies were handed over to their families for burial, while one person later died from injuries at the Dikko PHC.
The number of injured individuals has increased to 55, with one additional fatality at the healthcare facility.
Authorities continue to manage the aftermath of the incident, offering support to the injured and the families of the deceased.
Investigations are underway, and further updates will follow.
The explosion has highlighted the urgent need for better safety measures and public awareness to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In response to the disaster, Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has ordered a restriction on vehicles traveling from the Maje axis, directing them to avoid passing through the Dikko Bridge.
He stressed the importance of driver responsibility and directed that vehicles take a detour under the bridge and make a U-turn.
The Governor also urged the Federal Road Safety Corps to establish a presence in the area to enforce this directive and called on transport unions to cooperate.
Governor Bago expressed his sorrow over the incident and thanked emergency responders, including the fire service and volunteers, for their swift actions.
He also called on the Federal Government to prioritize completing the Minna-Suleja Road project, as delays in the road’s construction have contributed to frequent accidents and loss of life.
To further support the injured, the Governor announced that doctors from Minna hospitals would be redeployed to assist at Suleja General Hospital.
