A truck transporting gas cylinders exploded in the Magama community of Jibia Local Government Area in Katsina State on Friday, injuring many people and causing significant damage to nearby vehicles and buildings. According to sources, the explosion occurred at the ‘Walidan’ filling station, where products believed to have been smuggled from Niger Republic were stored. Aliyu Muhammad, a local resident, explained that the truck had been parked at the station for several days before the explosion. “Seven vehicles were destroyed, and two houses, including the one housing the filling station, were damaged,” Muhammad said, adding that numerous people were injured in the blast. The incident was confirmed by Katsina State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, who stated that the explosion occurred at around 8:45 AM on November 15, 2024. Police officers stationed at the Jibia Divisional Police Headquarters heard the loud blast and responded quickly, with the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and military personnel rushing to the scene. Upon arrival, the authorities found a truck loaded with gas cylinders engulfed in flames at the Tamal filling station along the Kagadama–Magamar Jibia road. The joint team acted swiftly to prevent further harm, extinguishing the fire and protecting lives and property. Aliyu reported that six vehicles were severely damaged in the fire, but fortunately, no fatalities were recorded. He added that the Katsina State Commissioner of Police, CP Aliyu Abubakar Musa, has ordered a full investigation to determine the cause of the explosion, with updates to be provided as the inquiry progresses. READ ALSO; Without divine intervention, the exchange rate would have skyrocketed to #10,000 for $1 – Pastor E. A Adebole
The Ekiti State Government has completed a significant milestone in its efforts to develop the Ekiti State Agro-Allied Cargo Airport, as it has disbursed N300 million to compensate 377 landowners whose properties were affected by the land acquisition process. During the cheque disbursement ceremony in Ado Ekiti, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, represented by Deputy Governor Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, acknowledged the landowners from Ijan, Igbemo, Afao, Iworoko, and other neighboring communities. These landowners were compensated not only for the land but also for the economic trees and resources that were impacted by the construction of the airport, which aims to boost economic activities and agriculture-related trade in the region. Governor Oyebanji expressed his sincere gratitude to the landowners, appreciating their patience and understanding throughout the process. He highlighted the importance of their cooperation in making the project a reality. “To you, the landowners, I say thank you for your patience and understanding,” he stated. “Today’s event signifies the disbursement of the third and final installment of compensation to the 377 claimants, marking the completion of our commitment to acknowledge and reward your contributions.” READ ALSO: Breaking: The NEC has advised the withdrawal of President Tinubu’s tax reform bills. This compensation initiative represents a commitment by the Ekiti State Government to ensure fair treatment of affected citizens, while paving the way for economic development projects that benefit the broader community. The government anticipates that the airport, once completed, will enhance the state’s economy by fostering agro-allied businesses and encouraging both local and international trade.
