The Niger State government has carried out a mass burial for the victims of the petrol tanker explosion in Essa village, Katcha Local Government Area.
A statement from the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Bologi Ibrahim, confirmed that the burial took place in Katcha, accompanied by special prayers for the dead and speedy recovery for the injured.
The statement noted that the state has approved full free medical care for all survivors of the accident.
It revealed that about 50 persons sustained varying degrees of injuries, ranging from burns to complications caused by smoke inhalation, and are currently receiving treatment in different hospitals.
The government’s action followed a visit by a delegation led by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Murtala Bagana, to the explosion site and medical facilities attending to the victims.
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According to the statement, drugs and medical supplies valued at N10 million have been distributed to hospitals handling the cases, with cash assistance also given to affected families.
The government commended the management of FMC Bida, the State Ministry of Health, Emergency Response Teams, and the Katcha Local Government Authority for their prompt and coordinated efforts in rescuing and treating victims.
It also urged the federal government to urgently repair all federal roads across the state, stressing that the poor condition of the Jebba–Mokwa–Bida–Agaie–Lapai–Lambata route played a major role in the tragic explosion.