The death toll from Tuesday’s devastating tanker explosion in Jigawa State has climbed to 153, as more victims succumbed to their injuries while receiving treatment.
The incident, which occurred in Majia town, Taura Local Government Area, has been described as the greatest tragedy to befall the state.
Lawan Adam, the police spokesperson for Jigawa State, confirmed the updated casualty figures on Thursday.
He stated, “About 100 victims were taken from the scene to hospitals in Kano, Nguru in Yobe State, and Dutse, Jahun, Hadejia, and Gumel in Jigawa.”
In response to the tragedy, President Bola Tinubu dispatched a high-level delegation to Jigawa State. Led by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume, the team visited survivors at Rasheed Shekoni Specialists Hospital in Dutse before proceeding to Majia town to offer condolences to bereaved families.
Addressing the press, Akume conveyed the President’s deep sorrow over the incident.
“The President is saddened by the unfortunate development, and he has directed some agencies to move into action,” he said.
Akume also revealed that Tinubu had ordered an immediate investigation by the Federal Road Safety Corps, not only into this incident but also similar occurrences nationwide, with the aim of reducing fatalities.
The delegation, which included Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru, Transportation Minister Saidu Alkali, and FRSC Corps Marshall Shehu Mohammed, assured that the federal government would complement the state’s relief efforts.
Governor Umar Namadi, who had earlier visited the accident scene and participated in funeral prayers for the deceased, pledged that the state government would cover all medical expenses for survivors.
In a statement released through his media aide, Hamisu Gumel, Namadi expressed, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims during this painful time. We stand in solidarity with those who have lost loved ones and those injured in this tragic incident.”
