Explosion: Niger Bans Heavy-duty Trucks on Dikko Bridge

The Niger State Government has issued a directive prohibiting vehicles from the Maje axis from using the Dikko Bridge one-way.

This decision follows a tragic tanker explosion that occurred on Thursday, January 18, 2025, at Dikko Junction in Gurara Local Government Area.

Governor Mohammed Bago gave the directive during a visit to the explosion site. Expressing deep concern over the recklessness of some drivers, the Governor stated that “vehicles coming from Maje must use the designated route under the bridge and make appropriate U-turns to prevent future accidents.”

He called on the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, to establish a detachment in the area to enforce the new traffic rule.

The Governor also urged all relevant transport unions to cooperate with the FRSC to ensure compliance.

Describing the tanker explosion, which claimed 86 lives, as “pathetic,” Governor Bago thanked God that the tragedy did not extend to nearby communities.

He reiterated the need for the Nigerian Government to expedite the completion of the Minna-Suleja road, highlighting that delays in the project contribute to repeated accidents and unnecessary loss of lives.

The Governor commended the efforts of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), Fire Service, FRSC, and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in managing the aftermath of the tragedy.

He revealed that medical Doctors from Minna hospitals would be deployed to assist in treating the 55 injured victims, who are currently receiving care at Suleja General Hospital.

On the update on the incident, NSEMA’s Director General said 80 bodies were buried in a mass grave at the Dikko Primary Health Centre (PHC) premises, while five were released to relatives for private burial. One additional victim succumbed to injuries at the PHC. The mass burial, conducted by NSEMA in collaboration with Gurara LGA and local volunteers, took place between 5 PM and midnight on the day of the incident.

Governor Bago’s administration has vowed to ensure stricter enforcement of traffic regulations to prevent future tragedies and safeguard lives in Nigeria.