Niger State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic tanker explosion that claimed over 30 lives and injured more than 46 others in Essa community, Katcha Local Government Area, on Monday.
In a statement signed by the Special Adviser on Special Duties to the Governor, Dr. Murtala Muhammad Bagana, the government described the incident as a painful loss to the entire state and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and communities affected by the disaster.
Acting on the directive of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, a government delegation led by Dr. Bagana visited the scene of the explosion and hospitals where the injured are receiving treatment. The state government has approved comprehensive and free medical care for all victims.
According to Dr. Bagana, four of the victims initially receiving treatment have died, while 14 others in critical condition have been evacuated to the National Hospital, Gwagwalada Specialist, and FMC Jabi in Abuja for advanced care. Others are being treated at the Federal Medical Centre, Bida, and General Hospitals in Bida and Agaie.
To support the ongoing medical response, the government released drugs and medical supplies worth over ₦10 million to the hospitals and made cash donations to affected families.
The State Ministry of Health, Emergency Response Teams, and Katcha Local Government Authority are jointly coordinating rescue and treatment operations.
Dr. Bagana commended the management of the Federal Medical Centre, Bida, for their swift and professional response, and appreciated Hon. Saidu Musa Abdul, Member representing Bida-Gbako-Katcha Federal Constituency, for providing ambulances used to evacuate the critically injured patients to Abuja.
A mass burial was conducted in Katcha for the 28 deceased victims, while survivors are being treated for severe burns and smoke inhalation injuries.
Dr. Bagana emphasized that the government’s priority remains saving lives and ensuring quality medical care for all survivors. He confirmed that the fire outbreak has been fully contained and that normalcy has returned to the community.
The state government also raised concerns over the poor condition of federal roads, which it said contributed to the accident, and called on the Federal Government to urgently rehabilitate the affected routes to prevent future tragedies.
While praying for the souls of the departed, Dr. Bagana urged residents to desist from scooping fuel from fallen tankers, warning that such acts often result in catastrophic loss of lives.
He reaffirmed Governor Bago’s commitment to the safety and well-being of all Nigerlites, assuring that the government will continue to support the victims and their families throughout this difficult period.
Credit: Tswangi TV
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