Over 70 people have died with several others sustaining injuries in a fuel tanker explosion which has occurred in Niger State, near Abuja.

The incident happened on Saturday morning near Dikko Junction along Minna Road.

Currently, firefighters are attempting to put off the fire.

The unfortunate victims were attempting to scoop fuel from the crashed tanker into their jerrycans and containers when the explosion occurred.

It is gathered that people had brought their generating set to aid in the fuel transfer.

“I saw the bodies of the victims, but I cannot confirm the exact number of fatalities. Among the deceased were a pregnant woman and some children,” an eyewitness said.