Niger govt conducts mass burial of petrol tanker explosion victims

A mass burial for victims of the petrol tanker explosion that occurred in Essa village, Katcha Local Government Area, has been conducted by the Niger State government.

According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Bologi Ibrahim, a mass burial was conducted for the deceased victims in Katcha, with special prayers held for the repose of their souls and quick recovery for the injured.

It said that the state government has also approved comprehensive free medical treatment for survivors of the tragedy that occurred in the state.

According to the statement, about 50 people sustained different degrees of injuries in the incident, with some receiving medical attention for burns and others for inhalation-related injuries.

He explained that the decision followed the visit of a state government delegation led by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Murtala Bagana, to the scene of the explosion and hospitals where victims are receiving treatment.

The government also announced that N10 million worth of drugs and medical supplies had been provided to hospitals treating the victims, alongside cash donations to affected families receiving care.

It expressed delight with the management of the FMC Bida for its swift response, as well as the State Ministry of Health, Emergency Response Teams, and the Katcha Local Government Authority for coordinating rescue and medical operations on the victims.

It further enjoined the federal government to expedite action in fixing all federal roads in the state to avoid recurrence, as the poor state of the Jebba–Mokwa–Bida–Agaie–Lapai–Lambata road contributed to the tragic incident.