Many people have been feared dead and others injured when a petrol tanker exploded around Dikko junction in Gurara local government area of Niger State.
It was learnt that the petrol tanker spilled its contents, causing people to rush to scoop the fuel at the scene throwing away caution and then the tanker exploded burnt many of them to death, while several others sustained various degrees of injuries
Niger State Governor, farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago expresses shock over the incident.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, the farmer Governor describes the explosion as worrisome, heartbreaking and unfortunate.
He specifically sympathises with the families of the victims of the explosion and prays that Allah will repose the souls of the departed and heal the injured.
The farmer Governor, however, cautioned the people to always be responsible and give priority to their safety.
He directed all the relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to do what is necessary while urging the Security Agents to ensure security in the area.
Eyewitnesses claimed a pregnant woman and another woman with a one-week-old baby were among those caught in the explosion when the locals scooped fuel.
