A fuel tanker had an accident and exploded in Jigawa state, killing at least 140 people who had gathered to collect fuel.

"The driver lost control, causing the tanker to overturn and spill fuel into a ditch. Nearby residents rushed to collect the fuel," said Shiisu Lawan Adam, the police spokesperson for Jigawa state in northern Nigeria, describing the accident that occurred late on October 15 in the town of Majiya.

While the crowd was gathered around the tanker, it suddenly exploded, killing at least 140 people and seriously injuring many others. Earlier, Adam had reported 94 deaths, and the death toll is expected to rise.

According to local reports, the tanker was driven by Yusuf Mohammad, who had set off from Kano state to Yobe state. The cause of the accident is still unclear.

Jigawa state police chief A.T. Abdullahi expressed condolences to the people of Majia and the entire state, while also urging the public to exercise caution around fuel tanker accidents.

"Stay away from the scene of any fuel tanker accident, as it always leads to fatal fire outbreaks," Abdullahi warned.

Location Jigawa state, northern Nigeria.