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Report on Jigawa Tanker Explosion Reveals; See the Numbers Dead, Hospitalized

Published by Tope Fakinlede on November 21st, 2024.

Report on Jigawa Tanker Explosion Reveals; See the Numbers Dead, Hospitalized

The investigation committee tasked with looking into the deadly tanker explosion in Majia, Jigawa State, has submitted its findings to Governor Umar Namadi. The explosion occurred on October 14, 2024, when a petrol tanker exploded in Majiya town, located along the Kano-Hadejia expressway in Taura Local Government Area.

Earlier, Governor Namadi had informed President Bola Tinubu that the blast resulted in 181 fatalities, with 210 families affected. Following this, a committee led by Hafizu Inuwa, the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, was set up to investigate the causes of the explosion and advise the government accordingly.

The committee’s report revealed a much higher death toll than initially reported, confirming that 209 lives were lost in the tragic incident. Inuwa also reported that 68 people were hospitalized, while 61 others had been discharged. Additionally, 167 families were affected by the explosion, and extensive property damage was caused, amounting to millions of naira.

Inuwa explained that the explosion was caused by several factors, including damaged speed bumps, potholes on the road, night driving, and excessive speed. He also noted that the fire likely started from friction between metallic containers and the road surface as victims tried to scoop the spilled fuel.

“We engaged with local stakeholders, visited health facilities, and consulted with the affected communities during our investigation. Unfortunately, the inferno led to the tragic loss of 209 lives. The destruction of properties was also significant,” Inuwa said in his report.

Governor Namadi expressed his gratitude to the committee for their “timely” submission and assured that the government would carefully review the findings to ensure prompt action and implementation of recommendations.

This follows a similar incident on November 13, 2024, when another petrol tanker exploded near the Jigawa-Kano border in Dutse Local Government Area. Fortunately, the fire was quickly contained, according to Aliyu M. A, the public relations officer for the state’s fire service.