Committee Submits Report on Jigawa Tanker Explosion: 209 Dead, 68 Hospitalised

Hafizu Inuwa, chairman of the investigation committee on the Majia tanker explosion in Jigawa state, has submitted the committee’s findings to Governor Umar Namadi.

The explosion occurred on October 14, 2024, when a petrol-laden tanker ignited in Majiya town along the Kano-Hadejia expressway in Taura LGA.

Governor Namadi had reported to President Bola Tinubu that the incident claimed 181 lives and affected 210 families. Following this, the governor established a committee, led by Inuwa, a deputy inspector-general of police, to investigate the root causes of the explosion and provide recommendations.

The committee’s report confirmed that 209 people lost their lives in the tragic incident. Inuwa explained that the investigation identified several contributing factors, including damaged speed bumps, potholes, night driving, and excessive speed.

He added that the committee engaged with key stakeholders, visited health facilities, and consulted with affected communities.

“I am saddened to inform His Excellency that the incident led to the total loss of two hundred and nine (209) lives. 38 are on admission and 61 discharged. One hundred and sixty-seven (167) families were affected. It was further discovered that the inferno resulted in the destruction of properties worth millions of naira,” he said.

“The findings revealed that several factors contributed to the fire, including damaged speed bumps and potholes near the scene, night driving, and excessive speed. It was noted that the fire likely ignited due to friction between metallic containers and hard surfaces as victims attempted to scoop spilled fuel.

Governor Namadi commended the committee for submitting a “timely” report and assured them that the government would review the findings for “quick implementation.”

Meanwhile, on November 13, another petrol tanker exploded along the Jigawa-Kano border in Dutse LGA.

Aliyu M. A., the public relations officer of the state fire service, said the fire was quickly contained and brought under control.

Faridah Abdulkadiri

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