Tragedy strikes on Nigerian highway as fuel tanker transporting cattle collides with passenger truck, resulting in a catastrophic explosion that leaves scores dead and many more injured. Alamy Stock
(The Post News)- A fuel tanker crash in the central state of Niger has claimed the lives of 48 people, including 50 cattle, in a devastating explosion that has left the nation reeling. The tragic event occurred on Sunday at approximately 00:30 local time (01:30 GMT) when a fuel tanker transporting cattle collided with a passenger truck, causing both vehicles to erupt in a deadly inferno.
According to the country’s emergency response agency, the rescue team was swiftly deployed to the scene to recover the remains of the victims. Director-General Abdullahi Baba-arah revealed that the rescuing operating team discovered 48 bodies, including 50 cattle, trapped inside the tanker. However, 18 bodies were burned beyond recognition, necessitating a mass burial due to the severity of their wounds.
Footage circulating on social media shows the extent of the destruction, with two additional vehicles entirely consumed by the blaze. As emergency rescue workers continue to work at the scene, the death toll is expected to rise.
Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State has urged citizens to remain calm and emphasized the importance of adhering to road regulations, which are in place to ensure the safety of all road users. He expressed his deepest condolences to the victims’ families and acknowledged the devastating impact of the incident on the community.
As the state of Niger mourns the loss of innocent lives, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for vigilance on Nigerian highways. The tragedy has sparked an outpouring of grief and support from across the nation, with many calling for improved measures to prevent such disasters in the future.
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