The death toll from the tragic tanker explosion in Diko, Niger State, has risen to 98, with 69 people injured and 20 shops completely destroyed, according to the Niger State Emergency Management Agency.
The explosion, which occurred on January 19, has left the local community in shock and mourning. Families are grieving their loved ones, and business owners are facing severe losses as their shops were burned to the ground.
In a statement, NSEMA Director General Abdullahi Baba-Arah described the incident as a “catastrophic tragedy” and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and property. “We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident,” he said. “The state government and NSEMA are committed to supporting the victims and ensuring that those injured get the care they need.”
Emergency responders are working tirelessly to provide medical assistance to the injured and recover the bodies of those who lost their lives. Victims have been transferred to various medical centers, including tertiary hospitals, to receive proper care.
The incident has also caused significant economic damage, with 20 shops completely destroyed. Shop owners and traders in the area are struggling with the loss of their livelihoods.
NSEMA has assured the public of the state government’s commitment to aiding the victims and their families. Efforts are being made to enhance safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
