At least 48 people were killed in a horrific accident on Sunday, September 8, along Nigeria’s Lapai-Agaie Road, when a fuel tanker exploded after a head-on collision with a truck.
The incident occurred just 2 kilometers from the Dendo community in Niger State, plunging several families into mourning.
According to the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the fuel tanker collided with a truck carrying passengers believed to be cattle dealers.
The severity of the collision triggered a massive fire, engulfing other vehicles, including a crane and a pickup truck, that were caught in the blaze. The force of the explosion and the ensuing fire made rescue operations extremely difficult.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as devastating, with the fire spreading rapidly due to the fuel spill, causing extensive damage to the surrounding area.
Emergency responders arrived on the scene but were hindered by the intense flames, which made it nearly impossible to save those trapped in the vehicles.
CNN reported that local authorities and rescue teams worked tirelessly to retrieve the bodies and transport survivors to nearby hospitals for treatment.
The accident has left the community in shock, with many grieving the loss of their loved ones.
Officials are continuing their investigation into the cause of the crash, with concerns being raised over the safety of Nigeria’s roads and the potential for stricter regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future.