Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has extended his deepest condolences to the people of Essa, in Katcha Local Council, over the tanker explosion that claimed many lives and left several others injured.

In a statement issued to the media by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, the incident is described as worrisome and pathetic.

Bago added. “This is yet another painful, difficult, and tragic one for the people and the state government.”

The governor had prayed that Allah would repose the souls of those who died in the explosion and grant quick recovery to the injured.

He said, “It is disheartening how people have continued to approach a fallen tanker to scoop its contents despite several sensitisations on the danger of such action.”

The governor urged the people to value their lives, regardless of the situation.

He lauded the management and staff of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) for its prompt intervention, promising that the state government, through relevant MDAs, will provide the needed support.