A tank exploded after it crashed in Nigeria, killing 77 people who were rushing to get fuel from the scene, authorities said.
A tanker overturned and spilled its contents in Suleja area of North Central Niger on Saturday.
It exploded after people started collecting fuel, killing dozens and injuring 25 others, including rescuers, officials said.
Fuel tank explosions and accidents are a common occurrence in the country – often caused by poor road conditions and poorly maintained vehicles.
Those injured in Saturday’s explosion were treated at nearby hospitals, emergency services said.
Nigeria has seen similar incidents in recent months.
Two weeks ago, a fuel tanker involved in an accident exploded in the oil-rich Delta region, killing at least five people, and at least 153 people died in an explosion while trying to collect leaking fuel in October.
Fuel prices have risen more than 400% in the past 18 months following Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s tough economic policies, including the removal of long-standing fuel subsidies.
These changes have plunged millions of people into poverty, with many forced to resort to harsh means to survive.
The government said its policies aim to strengthen the economy.
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