At least six people were killed on Tuesday night after a gas-laden truck exploded at an Army checkpoint along the Abuja–Lokoja Federal Highway in Kogi State.
The incident occurred near the Chikara area, triggering an emergency response from police officers, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and the Motor Traffic Division.
Eyewitnesses said the truck, carrying gas cylinders, exploded as it approached the checkpoint, sparking a fire that spread rapidly to nearby vehicles.
“The driver and his assistant were burnt to death. The fire also engulfed three other trucks, killing their drivers and assistants. In total, six people died,” a witness said.
Vehicles involved in the incident, with registration numbers from Jigawa, Lagos, and the Federal Capital Territory, were completely destroyed.
The remains of the victims were taken to General Hospital, Abaji, while emergency responders cleared the wreckage to restore traffic flow on the highway.
Police authorities in Kogi State had yet to officially confirm the incident as of the time of filing this report, as spokesperson ASP Salisu Oyiza Afusat did not respond to calls or messages.
