The death toll from the recent Abuja truck explosion has now risen to eight, according to the FCT Emergency Management Department. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening along the Abuja–Keffi Expressway near Karu Bridge, when a truck carrying Compressed Natural Gas collided with multiple vehicles. Initially, the FCT Police Command had reported six fatalities and 14 vehicles burnt in the accident.
Acting Director General of the FEMD, Abdulrahman Mohammed, provided an update on Thursday at the scene. He explained that of the six bodies recovered the previous day, four were charred beyond recognition. Additionally, two victims who had been rescued but later succumbed to their injuries were discovered on Thursday morning, bringing the total fatalities to eight.
Mohammed detailed that five bodies were recovered dead at the scene on Wednesday, and one of the injured individuals passed away later that day. In total, 30 injured victims are currently receiving treatment at various hospitals across the Federal Capital Territory. He noted that eight victims are at Karu General Hospital, 10 at the Customs Hospital, 11 at the National Hospital, and one at the Aso Clinic. He also mentioned that he had instructed medical teams to check Asokoro Hospital for additional cases.
The update underscores the ongoing challenges faced by emergency services as they manage the aftermath of the explosion. Further information is awaited as authorities continue to assess the situation and provide additional updates on the incident.
