From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has commended the prompt actions of federal and state emergency agencies and praised the community members who rushed to assist victims of the tragic petrol tanker explosion on Sunday.
The incident, which occurred on the Bida-Agaie-Lapai road, resulted in the deaths of over 40 people and numerous injuries, as reported by the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
The explosion was caused by a collision between a fuel tanker and a truck carrying cattle and passengers.
The Niger State Emergency Management Agency confirmed the rising death toll, It initially reported 30 fatalities before updating the figure to include an additional 18 victims. The deceased were later given a mass burial.
In addition to the human toll, an estimated 50 cattle perished in the blaze.
In a statement issued by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu, expressed deep condolences to the families of victims and the government of Niger State and sympathised with affected families and shop owners, praying for the swift recovery of the injured.
He directed relevant federal agencies to enhance safety measures for travelers and residents, emphasising the need for improved road infrastructure to prevent future tragedies.
In a related development, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu extended her prayers to the affected families and the people of Niger State, over the incident, hoping for strength and solace during this difficult time.
She said: “I commiserate with the Governor of Niger State, His Excellency Mohammed Umar Bago, and the people of Niger State on the tragic loss of lives and properties which occurred on Sunday 8th September, 2024, as a result of the tanker explosion.
“My thoughts and prayers are with you all, especially the people of Agaie Area in North-Central Local Government Area, Niger State.
“I pray that Almighty Allah grants the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives the strength and fortitude to bear the painful loss.
May Allah grant them all Aljannah Firdaus.”