An explosion occurred after an oil tanker crashed in Nigeria, killing 77 people who rushed to the scene to collect fuel, authorities said.

The tanker capsized and leaked its contents in the Suleja area of ​​north-central Niger state on Saturday.

Officials said the plane exploded shortly after people started scooping out fuel, killing dozens and injuring 25 others, including rescue workers.

Tanker explosions and accidents are common in the country and are often caused by poor road conditions and poorly maintained vehicles.

Emergency management agencies said people injured in Saturday’s explosion were being treated at a nearby hospital.

Nigeria has seen a number of similar incidents in recent months.

Two weeks ago, at least five people were killed when a tanker truck crashed in the oil-rich Delta state. At least 153 people In October, he died in an explosion while trying to collect leaking gasoline.

Fuel prices have risen more than 400% in the past 18 months after Nigerian President Bola Tinubu adopted bold economic policies, including the removal of long-standing fuel subsidies.

These changes have pushed millions into poverty, forcing many to take desperate measures to survive.

The government says its policies are aimed at strengthening the economy.