MAJIYA (Nigeria), October 17 2024: A devastating explosion killed more than 140 people in northern Nigeria after a fuel tanker overturned in the town of Majiya, Jigawa state, on Tuesday. The tragic incident unfolded when the tanker, attempting to avoid another vehicle, crashed, spilling fuel. As fuel gushed out, residents gathered to collect it, unaware of the looming danger.
According to police spokesman Lawan Shiisu Adam, officers at the scene were overwhelmed by the crowd, making it impossible to prevent the collection of fuel. In the chaos, an explosion occurred, resulting in mass casualties. Nura Abdullahi from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed that “more than 140 people” were buried in a mass grave, with the death toll expected to rise.
Earlier, police reported at least 94 fatalities and over 50 injuries. The Nigerian Medical Association has called on doctors to mobilize and provide urgent care to the victims in nearby hospitals.
In response to the tragedy, Nigerian lawmakers observed a minute of silence, while Vice President Kashim Shettima called for a review of safety measures and promised federal support for the affected community. This disaster comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with its worst economic crisis in decades, making fuel an even more precious commodity.
