NIGERIA: Niger Tanker Explosion: IGP Commiserates With Victims

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has expressed profound condolences to the government and the people of Niger State following the tragic tanker explosion at Dikko Junction along the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway on January 18, 2025.

According to the release, the unfortunate incident, caused by a truck loaded with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) losing control and igniting a massive fire, claimed the lives of over 73 individuals, left many others injured, and destroyed several shops and properties.

However, African Culture TV reported that the Director-General of NSEMA, Mr Abdullahi Baba-Arah, disclosed that the tragic accident resulted in 86 fatalities, with 80 individuals buried in a mass grave and the rest handed over to their families for burial.

NSEMA also revealed that the number of injured persons has risen to 55, with one fatality recorded at the healthcare facility in Dikko in the state.

In the police statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Sunday, the IGP described the event as a devastating tragedy and emphasized the urgent need for stricter adherence to road safety protocols to prevent such disasters.

As part of proactive measures, the IGP directed all State Commissioners of Police to strengthen the Motor Traffic Divisions (MTDs) within their respective commands.

He urged collaboration with other traffic management agencies to ensure strict enforcement of traffic regulations, particularly on major highways.

The IGP also called on vehicle owners and drivers to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and adhere to traffic laws to reduce risks and safeguard lives.

He noted that negligence and the disregard for safety standards often lead to avoidable accidents with catastrophic outcomes.

While praying for the repose of the souls of the departed and the speedy recovery of the injured, the IGP appealed to transport operators, stakeholders, and the general public to prioritize safety and responsibility in their operations to prevent future tragedies.

The police chief reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to ensuring safer roads across the country and called for collective action to avert similar incidents in the future.