Desperate Scramble for Scarce Gasoline Turns Deadly: 70 Killed in Nigeria Blast

Nigeria (The Uttam Hindu): At least 70 people lost their lives on Saturday when a fuel tanker exploded in central Nigeria as a crowd gathered to collect spilled fuel. The incident occurred around 10:00 a.m. at Dikko Junction, a major route connecting the federal capital Abuja with Kaduna in the north.

Kumar Tsukwam, head of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Niger State, confirmed the death toll, noting that most victims were burned beyond recognition. The tanker, carrying 60,000 liters of gasoline overturned and caught fire when people rushed to gather the leaking fuel, triggering a catastrophic explosion. A nearby tanker was also engulfed in the fire. Emergency responders remain on the scene to manage the aftermath.

This tragedy highlights the ongoing economic struggles in Nigeria, where fuel prices have soared since the government ended subsidies last year. President Bola Tinubu’s decision to remove the subsidy has caused fuel costs to rise fivefold over 18 months leading to widespread protests and desperation. Niger State Governor Umaru Bago expressed deep sorrow over the "heartbreaking and worrisome" incident, which also left several people with severe burns. Such accidents are tragically common in Nigeria, with over 1,500 fuel tanker accidents recorded in 2020 alone, emphasizing the urgent need for improved safety measures and economic reforms.