Many feared dead as fuel tanker explodes in Kaduna

Several people are feared dead after a fuel-laden tanker exploded on Monday morning in the Dan Magaji area of Zaria, Kaduna State — the latest in a series of deadly tanker accidents across Nigeria.

The incident occurred at about 8:30 a.m. near Rochas Foundation School, along the Kaduna–Kano expressway bypass from Kwangila to Dan Magaji.

According to counter-insurgency publication Zagazola Makama, the crash involved two fuel tankers and two passenger-filled Volkswagen Golf cars.

Eyewitnesses said the collision triggered five consecutive explosions, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky.

“All the occupants of the cars died on the spot, except one driver who survived but sustained severe burns,” one witness told reporters.

Emergency services, including firefighters and security personnel, have since cordoned off the scene.

Authorities have urged motorists and pedestrians to avoid the route while rescue and recovery operations continue.

The exact number of casualties has yet to be officially confirmed.

Statistics highlight the scale of Nigeria’s tanker accident crisis.

Between January 2009 and October 2024, the country recorded 169 fuel tanker crashes, resulting in 613 deaths. The year 2019 was the deadliest, with 29 incidents and 203 fatalities.

This year alone has seen several high-casualty tanker explosions.

In Niger State, five people died in one such crash, while in Agbor, Delta State, another tanker accident claimed multiple lives.

In October 2024, more than 150 people were killed in Jigawa State when a tanker exploded in a crowded area.

Authorities have launched an investigation into Monday’s tragedy.