A devastating tanker explosion occurred in the early hours of Sunday, September 8, 2024, in Agaie Local Government Area of Niger State, resulting in the loss of over 30 lives.

The incident happened along the Lapai-Agaie road, approximately 2 kilometers from Dendo Community, when a petrol tanker collided with a trailer truck transporting travelers and cattle from Kano to Lagos.

Two additional vehicles, a crane truck and a pickup van, were also engulfed in the inferno, which claimed the lives of over 50 cattle.

The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) is currently conducting search and rescue operations at the scene, as more bodies remain trapped in the wreckage.

According to NSEMA Director General, Abdullahi Baba-Arab, the explosion occurred at approximately 12:30 am on Sunday, September 8, 2024, along the Lapai-Agaie road, 2 kilometers from Dendo Community in Agaie LGA. The agency is working to provide assistance to those affected by the tragedy.