- Governor Namadi Joins Mass Burial, Promises Swift Action
By Mika’il Tsoho, Dutse
A tragic petroleum tanker explosion in Majia town, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State, has claimed the lives of at least 107 people, most of them youths, while 70 others remain hospitalised.
The incident, which took place on the night of 15th October 2024, has left the community in deep mourning.
The sombre death toll was confirmed during a mass burial attended by Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, who joined hundreds of grieving residents in paying their last respects to the victims.
Providing details of the incident, Jigawa State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Lawan Shiisu Adam, said the explosion occurred at around 10:30 p.m. when a petrol tanker, with registration number KMC 6412 F, driven by 32-year-old Yusuf Mohd from Hotoro Quarters in Kano, overturned near Khadija University in Majia.
The tanker was en route from Kano to Nguru in Yobe State when the driver lost control, causing it to spill fuel.
“The petrol entered through the drainage and reached the outskirts of the village. Unfortunately, when villagers attempted to scoop the petrol, a fire broke out, engulfing the area. Many people were tragically killed,” DSP Shiisu said.
Rescue operations were immediately launched, with officers from the Ringim Area Command and the Gujungu Divisional Police, alongside firefighters and volunteers, responding swiftly.
A total of 105 bodies were recovered on the spot, while 50 injured individuals were rushed to hospitals in Ringim and Hadejia for medical care.
The fire was eventually brought under control through a joint effort.
The Commissioner of Police for Jigawa State, CP AT Abdullahi, has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the people of Majia and the state at large.
“We pray for the souls of the departed and for Almighty Allah to prevent such tragic incidents from recurring,” he said, urging residents to avoid the scene of tanker accidents due to the inherent dangers posed by petroleum products.
During his visit, Governor Namadi expressed his profound sorrow over the incident and extended the state government’s full support to the bereaved families.
“We share in your grief and pain. The entire state mourns alongside you, and we are ready to provide all necessary assistance during this difficult time,” the governor said.
The governor also assured the public that the state will take proactive steps to prevent similar tragedies in the future, including measures to safeguard lives around accident-prone areas.
In addition to his promises of assistance, Governor Namadi prayed for the repose of the victims’ souls and for strength and solace for their grieving families.
This horrific event has left an indelible mark on the community, as the people of Jigawa rally together to recover from one of the state’s most devastating tragedies.
