Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) says, the number of deaths following the tanker explosion at Dikko Junction, Gurara Local Government Area of Niger state, North Central Nigeria, has risen to 86.
A Press statement issued by NSEMA Director General, Abdullahi Baba-Arah says, the remains of the deceased were recovered and buried in a coordinated effort by NSEMA, Gurara LGA authorities, and volunteers.
Of the deceased, 80 were buried in a mass grave at the Dikko Primary Healthcare (PHC) premises.
The mass burial, a somber and challenging task, reportedly took place between 5 p.m. and midnight involving brave and compassionate volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure the proper handling of the victims.
The number of injured individuals has risen to 55, with one fatality recorded at the healthcare facility in Dikko.
NSEMA, in collaboration with relevant agencies, continues to manage the aftermath of the disaster while providing support to the injured and affected families.
Meanwhile, the Niger State Government has directed that no vehicle coming from the Maje axis should be allowed to pass through the Dikko Bridge.
Governor Umaru Bago gave the directive when he visited the scene of the explosion around Dikko Junction, Gurara Local Government Area of the State.
The Governor, who decried the recklessness of some drivers, said they should follow under the bridge and take a U-turn appropriately.
He enjoined the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps to establish a detachment in the area to ensure the enforcement of the directive while calling on relevant transport unions to cooperate with them.
Governor Bago described the tanker explosion as pathetic, thanking God that the tragic incident did not extend to the adjoining communities
He called on the Federal Government to expedite action to complete the Minna-Suleja Road as the delay in the project is contributing to the continuous loss of lives.
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