Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has ordered an immediate ban on heavy-duty trucks using the one-way route through Dikko Bridge after a horrific tanker explosion at Dikko Junction in Suleja Local Government Area.

The explosion, which occurred on Saturday, claimed over 80 lives, many of whom were attempting to scoop fuel from the overturned tanker.

Governor Bago, during his visit to the site of the tragedy, expressed deep sorrow and described the incident as a painful reminder of the dangers posed by reckless behavior.

To prevent such disasters in the future, the governor announced that vehicles from the Maje axis would no longer be permitted to use the one-way route over Dikko Bridge.

Instead, they must take the alternative route beneath the bridge and make a U-turn. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has been tasked with enforcing this directive, with additional support from transport unions to ensure compliance.

Governor Bago linked the frequent accidents in the area to delays in the completion of the Minna-Suleja road project. He urged the federal government to accelerate the work.

In a bid to support the injured, the governor ordered the redeployment of doctors from Minna hospitals to Suleja General Hospital, where many victims are receiving treatment.

He assured the families of the deceased and the injured that the state government would do everything possible to provide support during this difficult time.