30 Feared Dead, 40 Injured in Tanker Explosion in Niger State!

Sele Media Africa
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Reported by Amos Dachung (Sele Media Africa Reporter)

30 Feared Dead, 40 Injured in Tanker Explosion in Niger State

A devastating tanker explosion has reportedly claimed the lives of at least 30 people and left around 40 others injured in the Essan‑Badeggi area along the Bida–Agaie Road in Katcha Local Government Area of Niger State. The incident occurred around 11 a.m. on Tuesday, 21 October 2025, after a tanker carrying petrol crashed and residents rushed to scoop the fuel when the vehicle suddenly exploded. [1]

Eyewitnesses describe horrific scenes: scorched bodies, multiple victims trapped in the flames, and injured survivors rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Bida for treatment. [2]

The Chairman of the state’s Tanker Drivers Association and National Ex‑Officio of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Comrade Farouk Mohammed Kawo, confirmed the tanker was en route from Lagos to the north when it crashed. He lamented that more than 30 tanker incidents have been recorded on the same road in October alone, blaming the poor condition of the roadway for the high casualty rate.
Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State described the tragedy as “painful, difficult, and tragic” in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, and commended the state’s emergency management agency for their swift response. He also appealed to residents to value life over the temptation of free fuel from crashed tankers. [2]

The incident reignites concerns about traffic safety and oil transport regulation along the Bida–Agaie–Lapai corridor, a route increasingly described as a “tanker death‑trap.” Analysts and local officials are now calling for urgent road repairs, stricter policing of accidents, and intensified public awareness campaigns to prevent further loss of lives.
Citations:

1. The Guardian Nigeria: guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/tanker-explosion-kills-30-injures-40-in-niger/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2. Vanguard News: www.vanguardngr.com/2025/10/30-feared-dead-40-injured-in-niger-state-tanker-explosion/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
3. Channels Television: www.channelstv.com/2025/10/21/over-30-feared-dead-40-injured-in-niger-tanker-explosion-while-scooping-fuel/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
4. PM News Nigeria: pmnewsnigeria.com/2025/10/21/black-tuesday-in-niger-over-30-dead-40-injured-in-tanker-fire-disaster/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

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David Joshua Oliver

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Oliver David Joshua is a seasoned media professional with a passion for impactful journalism and strategic leadership. As the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Sele Media Africa, he oversees the organization’s editorial vision, ensuring high standards of truth, balance, and bold reporting. Known for his sharp editorial eye and commitment to excellence, Oliver plays a key role in shaping the voice of Sele Media Africa across the continent. His leadership continues to drive innovation, credibility, and growth in Africa’s digital media space.

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