Tragedy struck in Niger State on Tuesday as 35 people were confirmed dead following a devastating tanker explosion along the Bida–Lapai route, near Badegi.
The victims were reportedly burnt beyond recognition while attempting to scoop fuel from a crashed tanker a practice authorities have repeatedly warned against.
According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the fatal incident occurred around 12:15 p.m. when a fuel tanker loaded with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) lost control due to the poor condition of the road and overturned.
Moments later, residents in the area rushed to the scene to collect fuel from the fallen vehicle.
However, the situation turned tragic when the spilled fuel ignited, leading to an inferno that consumed dozens.
The FRSC Rescue Team, led by the Unit Head of Operations, promptly responded to the distress call and worked with the Niger State Fire Service, Bida Division, to contain the flames and evacuate survivors for medical attention.
In total, 46 people sustained serious burns, while 35 were confirmed dead on the spot.
In a statement released Tuesday evening, the Corps expressed deep sorrow, describing the explosion as a “needless national tragedy born out of ignorance, greed, and disregard for safety warnings.”
FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed commiserated with the families of the victims, while cautioning Nigerians against approaching fallen tankers or crash scenes involving flammable materials.
“This is not just a crash; it is a painful reminder that every time people ignore safety advice and rush to scoop petrol, they gamble with their lives. No litre of fuel is worth a human life,” he stated.
Furthermore, Mohammed directed all FRSC formations nationwide to intensify community-based sensitisation, particularly in rural and high-risk areas.
He also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, and local authorities to work with the Corps in educating residents about the dangers of fuel scooping.
The Corps Marshal noted that similar incidents had led to high fatality rates in 2024, stressing that most casualties were recorded after residents tried to scoop petrol from crashed tankers.
“Primary crashes involving tankers rarely claim lives; it is the reckless rush to scoop fuel that causes these tragedies,” he added.
“The Corps once again appeals to the motoring public and residents along major highways to report any crash involving tankers or hazardous materials immediately via the FRSC toll-free emergency number 122, rather than taking reckless actions that lead to avoidable loss of lives,” the statement concluded.
