Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has expressed sympathy to residents of Essa community in Katcha Local Government Area following a tanker explosion that claimed several lives and left many others injured.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Bologi, the governor described the tragedy as “worrisome, unfortunate, and pathetic.”
“This is yet another painful, difficult, and tragic one for the people and the state government,” he stated.
Governor Bago lamented that despite repeated public awareness campaigns on the dangers of scooping fuel from fallen tankers, some individuals still engage in the risky act.
He prayed for the repose of the souls lost in the incident and wished the injured victims a quick recovery.
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The governor praised the Niger State Emergency Management Agency for its swift intervention and pledged the government’s assistance to the affected families.
Reports indicate that the explosion occurred when residents gathered to collect petrol from a fallen tanker in Essa community, resulting in the deaths of about 30 people and injuries to many others.
Those injured are currently receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre, Bida.