A tanker explosion in Majiya town, Jigawa State, claimed 209 lives and injured 99 others, according to findings presented by the Jigawa Tanker Explosion Investigation Panel.
The tragedy, which occurred on October 14, 2024, caused widespread destruction, leaving 167 families severely affected and properties worth millions of naira destroyed.
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Hafizu Inuwa, the panel’s chairman, disclosed these figures while submitting the committee’s report to Governor Umar Namadi in Dutse on Wednesday.
The panel, formed by Governor Namadi with 25 members, investigated the incident’s root causes and proposed measures to prevent similar occurrences.
“Our findings revealed that factors like poor road infrastructure, damaged speed breakers, and potholes near the accident scene contributed to the tragedy,” Inuwa explained. He also cited night driving and excessive speeding, adding that the inferno was triggered by friction from metallic containers used by victims attempting to scoop spilt fuel.
Inuwa noted that 38 injured victims remain hospitalized, while 61 others have been discharged.
The committee recommended preventive measures, including regular inspections and safety enforcement for petroleum transporters, upgrading emergency response centers with trauma and burn units, and establishing a dedicated road traffic control agency.
To support affected families, the panel suggested enrolling them in the ‘Danmodi Care Programme’ for financial and psychological assistance.
Governor Namadi expressed gratitude to the panel for its comprehensive investigation and pledged to implement their recommendations.
“We will take decisive actions to prevent such tragic incidents in the future. This government is committed to the safety and well-being of all residents,” Namadi said.
Inuwa commended the state government for its swift humanitarian response to the disaster, which included immediate support to the affected community.
