By SCM Staff Writer I Wednesday, Oct 22, 2025
HEARTS are heavy across Nigeria after a petrol tanker explosion turned a major highway into a scene of unimaginable horror, claiming the lives of at least 35 people.
The devastating accident, which saw a petrol-laden tanker go up in a massive fireball, happened along the Bida/Agaie highway in Niger State, leaving a trail of death and destruction.
The grim toll stands at a shocking 35 fatalities, with a further 17 victims rushed to hospital for emergency treatment following the catastrophic blast.
The tragedy has sent a wave of grief across the country, prompting an outpouring of sympathy from political leaders.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu led the tributes, expressing his heartfelt condolences to the families shattered by the irreparable loss.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Governor described the incident as “worrisome and pathetic.”
”It is with a heavy heart that I read and followed the development of the disaster that happened yesterday along the Bida/Agaie highway in Niger State,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who is the Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum, added: “Our thoughts and prayers are with my brother, Governor Mohammed Bago, the Government and the people of Niger State, as well as the deceased families and victims of the sad incident.”
”I pray for the repose of the deceased and ask that the Almighty God grant the families of the victims the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. I wish those receiving treatment a quick recovery.”
The cause of the lone tanker accident is still under investigation, as emergency services and local authorities continue to deal with the aftermath of the shocking loss of life.
