The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the death of 73 persons following the tragic tanker explosion that occurred at the Dikko Junction, Abuja-Kaduna Expressway, Niger State, on Saturday.
A truck loaded with petrol lost control and eventually caught fire, claiming no fewer than 50 lives according to initial media reports.
But a statement issued on Sunday morning by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, an Assistant Commissioner of Police, said about 73 dead bodies were recovered from the scene.
It was learnt that the death toll may rise as several persons, who were critically injured, are currently battling for life.
The statement noted the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun also extended “heartfelt condolences to the government and the good people” of the state.
While emphasizing the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols on roads nationwide, the IGP warned firmly against the “negligence and disregard for regulations that can lead to such catastrophic incidents”.
He directed all State Commissioners of Police to “strengthen their Motor Traffic Divisions (MTDs) of their respective State Commands, in collaboration with other traffic management agencies, to ensure strict compliance and enforcement of established protocols and traffic regulations on highways”.
He also charged vehicle owners and drivers to “ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy and abide by the traffic rules in order to prevent any tragedies”.