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Nigeria Tanker Explosion Near Suleja Kills 98 Amid Fuel Crisis

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Nigeria Tanker Explosion

Firefighters extinguish fire from a tanker that exploded in Suleja, Nigeria, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Arise News)

Nigeria Tanker Explosion: The death toll from a gasoline tanker explosion near Suleja in Niger State, Nigeria, has risen to 98, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

The incident occurred early Saturday when individuals attempted to transfer gasoline from a crashed tanker to another vehicle using a generator, which ignited the fuel and caused the explosion. Both those involved in the transfer and bystanders were among the casualties.

Hussaini Isah, NEMA’s head of operations for Niger State, indicated that the death toll might increase as search and rescue efforts continue. He noted that a crowd had gathered at the scene, including people taking pictures and others attempting to collect spilled gasoline, which contributed to the high number of victims.

Nigeria Tanker Explosion

This tragic event highlights the dangers associated with siphoning fuel from damaged tankers, a practice that has become more prevalent in Nigeria. Following the removal of fuel subsidies by President Bola Tinubu’s administration in 2023, gasoline prices have surged, leading some individuals to seek free fuel from such accidents. While the subsidy removal aimed to reallocate resources for developmental purposes, it has also resulted in increased economic hardship for many Nigerians.

The incident underscores the need for public awareness about the risks of collecting spilled fuel and the importance of maintaining safety protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

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