The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed that 86 lives were lost in the tragic tanker explosion at Dikko Junction in Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State on Saturday.
In a statement by NSEMA Director General Abdullahi Baba-Arah, it was revealed that the remains of the victims were recovered and buried through a collaborative effort involving NSEMA, local authorities, and volunteers.
Of the deceased, 80 were laid to rest in a mass grave at the Dikko Primary Healthcare (PHC) premises. Five others were handed over to their families for burial in the town, while one person succumbed to injuries at the Dikko PHC.
The mass burial, conducted between 5 p.m. and midnight, was a solemn effort carried out by volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure the victims were respectfully handled.
The number of injured individuals has risen to 55, with one fatality recorded at the healthcare facility in Dikko.
NSEMA and other relevant agencies continue to manage the disaster’s aftermath while supporting the injured and bereaved families.
In response to the incident, Niger State Governor Umaru Bago directed that vehicles coming from the Maje axis should no longer pass through the Dikko Bridge.
Instead, they should use an alternate route under the bridge and appropriately make a U-turn.
During his visit to the explosion site, Governor Bago condemned the recklessness of some drivers. He urged the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to establish a detachment in the area to enforce traffic regulations.
He also called on transport unions to cooperate with the authorities to ensure compliance.
Describing the explosion as a “pathetic” incident, the governor expressed gratitude that the tragedy did not extend to neighboring communities.
He further appealed to the Federal Government to expedite the completion of the Minna-Suleja Road, noting that delays in the project have contributed to the recurring loss of lives.
Governor Bago commended NSEMA, the fire service, and other agencies involved in the evacuation efforts.
He also announced that doctors from Minna hospitals would be deployed to assist in treating the injured victims at Suleja General Hospital.
This tragedy underscores the urgent need for heightened safety measures and public awareness to prevent such incidents in the future.
Investigations and recovery efforts are ongoing, and further updates will be provided.