In a risky turn of events, youths in Jalingo, the capital city of Taraba State, were seen scooping fuel from a faulty tanker that crashed at Mile 6 on Wednesday. The incident has sparked fears of a potential explosion, especially following a recent tanker blast in Niger State that claimed nearly 100 lives.
Eyewitnesses reported that as the tanker leaked its contents, a crowd gathered to collect the fuel. Security personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Nigeria Police Force quickly intervened, dispersing the youths and cordoning off the area to prevent further danger.
Shop owners and traders nearby promptly closed their businesses, fearing the worst.
The spokesperson for the NSCDC in Taraba State, Illia Samuel, confirmed that the tanker driver sustained injuries in the crash and has been taken to a medical facility for treatment. He emphasized the need for residents to steer clear of the accident site.
“Immediately we got information about the accident, the command dispatched officers to secure the area and prevent any incidents that could lead to casualties. We are working to ensure the safety of residents and travelers,” Samuel said.
Superintendent of Police Abdullahi Usman also confirmed the incident, assuring the public that measures are being taken to secure the area and prevent any escalation.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about the dangers of fuel scooping and the urgent need for public awareness campaigns to prevent such risky behavior.