The tanker explosion in Majiya town, along the Kano-Hadejia expressway in Taura LGA of Jigawa State, left 209 people dead and 38 injured, according to the findings of an investigative committee led by Hafizu Inuwa.
The report, submitted to Governor Umar Namadi, revealed the cause of the incident which happened on October 14, 2024.
Governor Namadi, in his initial report to President Bola Tinubu, stated that 181 people died and 210 families were affected. However, the committee’s investigation revealed a higher death toll and massive destruction.
Inuwa, a Deputy Inspector-General of Police, while submitting the report disclosed that 38 people were still hospitalised while 61 have been discharged.
He added that 167 families were also affected and properties worth millions of naira were destroyed.
The committee attributed the tragic incident to damaged speed bumps, potholes, night driving, and excessive speed.
Inuwa explained that the fire likely ignited from friction between metallic containers and hard surfaces as victims attempted to scoop spilled fuel.
The committee engaged with key stakeholders, visited health facilities, and consulted with affected communities to uncover the root causes of the explosion.
He said, “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 are 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.
“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 their “timely and thorough” work and assured them that the state government would review the findings and implement recommendations to preventive future occurrences.
“This report provides a roadmap for addressing the underlying issues that led to this tragedy,” Namadi stated.
On November 13, a month after the Majiya tanker explosion, another petrol tanker exploded along the Jigawa-Kano border in Dutse LGA.
According to Aliyu M. A., public relations officer of the state’s fire service, the fire was contained.