UPDATE: 86 bodies recovered, buried after Niger tanker explosion

A devastating tanker explosion at Dikko Junction in Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State has claimed the lives of 86 people, according to Abdullahi Baba Arah, Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA).

Speaking on Sunday, Arah revealed that 80 victims were buried in a mass grave located at the Dikko Primary Health Care premises, while five bodies were claimed by relatives for private burial.

One victim succumbed to injuries at the healthcare center.

The tragic incident occurred when a fuel tanker traveling from Kaduna to Gwagwalada overturned at the junction, spilling its contents.

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Despite warnings to keep a safe distance, many residents gathered to scoop fuel from the site.

The tanker exploded, resulting in catastrophic loss of life, severe injuries, and the destruction of property worth millions of naira.

The mass burial, organized by NSEMA in collaboration with Gurara local government officials and community volunteers, commenced at 5 p.m. and lasted until midnight.

Arah confirmed that 55 people sustained injuries in the explosion and are currently receiving medical care.