Fuel tanker explosion in Nigeria kills 38

At least 38 people have been killed in a devastating fuel tanker explosion in Nigeria, local authorities have confirmed.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, October 22, along the Katcha–Agai Road in the southern village of Ezza. According to international media outlet TRT World, the fuel-laden tanker overturned on a damaged section of the road, causing fuel to spill. Dozens of people reportedly rushed to collect the leaking fuel before the tanker suddenly exploded, leading to massive casualties.

Farouk Mohammed Kao, chairman of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers’ Association in Niger State, said, “Most of the victims were collecting fuel from the tanker just moments before the explosion.”

Hajiya Aishatu Sadu, commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Niger, said rescue operations are ongoing, though heavy traffic congestion has severely hampered the process. “The poor condition of the road has made rescue efforts extremely difficult,” she added.

Such tragic incidents are common in Nigeria, where poor road conditions and badly maintained vehicles frequently cause tanker explosions and fatal road accidents.