By Erewunmi Peace

At least 31 people have been confirmed dead and 17 others injured following a tragic tanker explosion in Niger State, Nigeria.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, October 22, 2025, near Bida town, when a fuel-laden tanker overturned along a major road and spilled petrol onto the ground. According to eyewitnesses, several residents rushed to scoop the leaking fuel before the tanker suddenly exploded, resulting in multiple fatalities and severe burns.

The Niger State Police Command confirmed the casualty figures through its spokesperson, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, who said the victims included local residents and passers-by. He added that emergency responders, including firefighters and police officers, were immediately deployed to the scene to control the fire and assist victims.

“Unfortunately, 31 persons lost their lives in the incident while 17 others sustained varying degrees of injury,” Abiodun said.

He also warned residents against approaching accident scenes involving petroleum products, stressing that such actions often lead to avoidable tragedies.

The Governor of Niger State, Umaru Bago, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and described the incident as “a painful reminder of the dangers of fuel scooping.” He assured that the state government would provide medical support to survivors receiving treatment at nearby hospitals.

Images from the scene showed burnt vehicles, motorcycles, and properties destroyed by the inferno. Locals say it was one of the deadliest explosions in the area in recent years.

As of press time, the police and state emergency management officials were still assessing the full extent of the damage.