This tragic incident comes amid a backdrop of rising gasoline prices in Nigeria, a situation exacerbated by the removal of subsidies by President Bola Tinubu's administration over a year ago.

The explosion has resulted in a confirmed death toll of 86, with many fatalities including those transferring gasoline and innocent bystanders, while 55 others have been injured and are receiving treatment at local hospitals.

The scene attracted a large crowd, including onlookers taking pictures and individuals trying to scoop gasoline, which significantly contributed to the high number of casualties.

A devastating explosion occurred on January 17, 2025, near Suleja in Niger state, Nigeria, when individuals attempted to transfer gasoline from a crashed oil tanker using a generator.

Scooping gasoline from fallen tankers is a common practice in Nigeria, as many see it as a chance to obtain free fuel for personal use or resale.

As reported by the National Emergency Management Agency on January 18, 2025, the death toll may rise further due to the severity of burns suffered by victims and the difficulties in accurately counting the deceased without forensic analysis.