A massive petrol tanker explosion occurred on Wednesday morning in the Felele area of Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State, leaving 25 persons dead.

The fuel-laden tanker belonging to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) had brake failure, and rammed into five cars, two motorcycles and three tricycles, as it swerved down the road, killing the occupants. The tanker later burst into flames, according to Street Journal. 

Those affected include five students of the Kogi State polytechnic, three nursery school pupils and passersby who were burnt beyond recognition.

A businessman simply identified as Samson, who was going to drop off his three kids and wife at school also died in the explosion.

The tanker driver was said to have made frantic signals with the hand, warning other motorists to steer clear, but for some, it was too late.

Men of the Federal Roads Safety Corps (FRSC), who arrived around 10 am, came along with an ambulance to evacuate the corpses.

The FRSC sector commander, Idris Fika Ali said 23 people were killed in the explosion, while a minor escaped with injuries.

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Governor Yahaya Bello expressed shock over the explosion.

The governor in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Onogwu Mohammed expressed sadness over the loss of lives and property.

The statement reads: “Governor Bello is very sad to learn of the tragic loss of lives, many vehicles, property and other valuables in the petrol tanker fire and expresses his deep condolences to the family of those affected.

“This is sadly the greatest tragedy the state has witnessed in recent times. The unfortunate accident is a sad development and he shares the feeling of those who lost their loved ones.

“The governor also urged the students of the Kogi State Polytechnic to remain calm and peaceful, and that he equally shares in their grieving moment over the death of some of their colleagues in the disaster.”