A fuel tanker caught fire on Monday morning along Kutigi Road in Lavun Local Government Area of Niger State, causing panic among motorists and residents as thick black smoke billowed from the vehicle. Traffic on the busy route was brought to a standstill while emergency services responded and secured the scene.
Authorities later confirmed that the fire was under control and no casualties were reported. Aishat Saadu, Sector Commander of the Niger State Command, told SaharaReporters, “It’s true, no casualties reported for now; the situation is under control. A full report is being compiled and will soon be ready.”
The incident is the latest in a series of tanker-related fires in Niger State. In October, a tanker explosion on the Bida–Agaie Road killed 35 people and injured dozens after a vehicle overturned and spilled fuel, which ignited as onlookers attempted to collect it. Other recent incidents include a 2024 crash on the Kontagora–Minna Road and a March 2023 fire on the Kutigi–Bida route, both of which caused property damage and road closures.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of Monday’s fire.
