A catastrophic explosion occurred today in the city of Katsina, following a gas tanker accident that caused extensive damage to surrounding vehicles and properties. The explosion, which took place in a busy area near the city's commercial hub, has left residents and emergency response teams in shock. While the full scale of the destruction is still being assessed, authorities confirm multiple vehicles have been destroyed, and several buildings have sustained significant damage.
According to eyewitness reports, the gas tanker was involved in a collision with another vehicle before it exploded, sending a massive fireball into the sky. The blast was heard several kilometers away, and the intense heat ignited nearby structures and vehicles.
Rescue teams, including fire services and medical personnel, were immediately dispatched to the scene. Several individuals are reported to have sustained injuries, though exact numbers are yet to be confirmed. Emergency teams are working tirelessly to contain the fire, prevent further explosions, and rescue anyone who may be trapped.
The Katsina State Government has expressed deep concern over the incident and promised to investigate the cause of the explosion thoroughly. In a statement, the Governor of Katsina, Dikko Umar Radda, assured the public that measures would be taken to prevent such disasters in the future, emphasizing the importance of safety protocols for transporting hazardous materials across the state.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has also pledged full cooperation with authorities to assist in the investigation and provide any necessary support to those affected.
Residents in the affected area have been urged to stay clear of the scene while emergency crews continue their work. A temporary evacuation order has been put in place for safety reasons.