Death toll in Abuja CNG tanker explosion rises to eight

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Emergency Management Department has confirmed that the death toll from the Abuja truck explosion has risen to eight.

The accident, which occurred on Wednesday evening near Karu Bridge along the Abuja-Keffi Expressway, involved a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-laden truck and multiple vehicles.

Acting Director General of the FCT Emergency Management Department (FEMD), Abdulrahman Mohammed, provided the update on Thursday while addressing journalists at the scene.

Earlier, the FCT Police Command, through a statement signed by its spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, reported six fatalities and the destruction of 14 vehicles in the explosion. However, Mohammed clarified that among the initial six casualties, four were burned beyond recognition. Two additional victims, who were initially rescued, succumbed to their injuries on Thursday morning, bringing the total fatalities to eight.

“Five people were confirmed dead at the scene yesterday. One more passed away later, making six. Then this morning, after further checks, we discovered that two more had died, bringing the total to eight. Four of the victims from yesterday were burned beyond recognition,” he explained.

He also confirmed that 30 others were receiving medical treatment at various hospitals across the FCT. According to him, eight victims are being treated at Karu General Hospital, 10 at Customs Hospital, 11 at the National Hospital, and one at Aso Clinic.

Mohammed further stated that officials were checking other hospitals, including Asokoro Hospital, to verify if additional victims had been admitted.