A fuel tanker explosion in Dikko, Niger State, Nigeria, resulted in a devastating loss of life, leaving at least 86 people dead. The incident sparked debate surrounding economic hardship and the role of government policies in fueling desperation.
A fuel tanker explosion in Dikko , Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State , Nigeria , claimed the lives of at least 86 people on January 18, 2023. The incident occurred when a 60,000-litre petrol-laden tanker detached from its head and fell near Sabon Kasuwa community. Witnesses reported that attempts were being made to transfer the fuel from the fallen tanker to another using a pumping machine when the fire erupted.
The explosion destroyed five shanties, a POS stand, a cold room, and other business facilities.Abubakar Jibrin, a businessman who narrowly escaped the inferno, estimated his losses to exceed N20 million. He described the chaotic scene, stating that people were thrown southward and heard crying and screaming in the air. The fire, according to survivors and families of the victims, was caused by the pumping machine used in the fuel transfer process. While authorities initially attributed the fire to residents scooping fuel, many believe economic hardship, fueled by government policies, drove them to desperation.The incident highlights the ongoing economic crisis in Nigeria, forcing many to resort to dangerous measures like scavenging fuel. The explosion also claimed the life of Amina Ismail, a 37-year-old school teacher, who was on her way to the market when the tanker exploded. Her husband, Muhammed Kabir, recounted how his wife was trying to surprise their daughter with a visit to her school on her 14th birthday. Amina's body remains missing. The tragedy underscores the human cost of economic hardship and the urgent need for sustainable solutions to address poverty and inequality in Nigeria
Nigeria Niger State Fuel Tanker Explosion Dikko Economic Hardship Government Policies Death Toll
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