Dikko tanker explosion: Death toll rises to 98

The death toll from the tragic tanker explosion in Dikko, Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State, has risen to 98, with 69 others injured.

The devastating incident occurred last Saturday when a fuel-laden tanker crashed and spilled its contents, leading to a catastrophic explosion.

Abdullahi Baba-Arah, Director-General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, provided an update on Monday, explaining that the explosion happened during an attempt to transfer petrol from the damaged tanker to another. The incident also destroyed over 20 shops, leaving the community in shock and mourning.

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President Bola Tinubu has responded to the alarming rise in tanker explosions across the country by setting up a high-level committee to investigate the incidents and recommend solutions.

Meanwhile, the Niger State government has urged the federal government to fast-track work on the Minna-Suleja road project. The dilapidated road has been cited as a major factor contributing to the frequent accidents in the area.