Clarion Newschannel TV – Abuja | October 22, 2025
A tragic scene unfolded in Niger State on Tuesday as a fuel tanker overturned and exploded along the Bida–Agaie highway, killing at least 35 people and leaving dozens injured
According to reports from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the explosion occurred near Essa village in Katcha Local Government Area after the tanker, laden with petrol, lost control and toppled over, spilling its contents across the road.
Moments later, a massive fireball erupted, engulfing vehicles, motorcycles, and bystanders. Eyewitnesses say several villagers had rushed to scoop the spilt fuel when the flames suddenly ignited — a familiar but tragic pattern in fuel-related disasters across Nigeria.
> “It was a horrifying sight. People were shouting and running, but the fire spread too quickly,” said a resident, who witnessed the explosion.
The FRSC Sector Commander, Aishatu Sa’adu, confirmed that emergency teams and security personnel swiftly arrived at the scene to evacuate victims and clear the wreckage. Over 46 people were reportedly rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Bida, with varying degrees of burns.
Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State described the incident as “heart-wrenching and preventable,” urging residents to desist from scooping fuel and calling for improved road safety and tanker regulation.
This latest accident reignites concerns over the deplorable state of Nigerian highways and the dangers of transporting petroleum products by road, particularly through rural communities.
Authorities say an investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the crash and assess compliance with transport safety standards by the tanker’s operators.
At a Glance
Location: Essa Village, Katcha LGA, Niger State
Casualties: 35 dead, 46 injured
Cause: Tanker overturn and fuel ignition
Response: FRSC, fire service, and emergency teams on site
Governor’s Reaction: Urges restraint and safety reforms
🕯️ Clarion Newschannel TV extends condolences to the families affected by this devastating incident.
35 Feared Dead as Fuel Tanker Explodes in Niger State
