Headlines
FG to Assist Victims of Imo Refinery Explosion with Relief Materials
By Derrick Bangura
Nigeria’s federal government on Thursday revealed that it would assist victims of last Friday’s fire explosion at the site of an illegal refinery in Abaezi, Ohaji- Egbema local government area of Imo State.
Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, who said this, also condoled with the government and people of state over the inferno which led to the death of no fewer than 110 persons.
She also conveyed federal government’s condolences in Owerri, during a visit to access the scene of the explosion and ascertain the level of damage.
Umar-Farouq, represented by the Director, Relief and Rehabilitation of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mr. Alhassan Nuhu, said the government would assist victims of the disaster with relief material after due assessment of its impact.
She described the incident as preventable and cautioned against illegal activities so as to avert possible future recurrence.
The minister called on operators of the refinery to approach appropriate authorities to seek legal means of refining crude oil.
She also called on stakeholders and security agencies to collaborate with regulatory bodies in the oil and gas sector to nip the ugly trend in the bud.
“This visit is to condole with Imo people and access the extent of damage so as to ascertain the volume of relief for the victims.
“We implore increased collaboration with NEMA and security agencies to crackdown on illegal refineries and oil bunkering activities,” she said.
Also speaking, the State Governor, Hope Uzodimma decried illegal bunkering activities in the area, saying that the incident affected both human and aquatic life.
The governor who was represented by Commissioner for Petroleum Resources, Mr. Goodluck Opiah, expressed worry that oil companies in the area have neglected their social responsibilities towards their host communities.
He said government has made efforts to stop the illegal bunkering in the area, adding that the incident was “a disaster waiting to explode.”
Uzodimma, however, thanked the federal government for showing concern and urged the delegates to help with relief materials to cushion the effects of the disaster.
In her remarks, Imo State Commissioner for Humanitarian
Affairs and Disaster Management, Rabi Ibrahim expressed reservation that some of those that dead in the inferno might not be oil bunkers but unfortunate victims.
President Bola Tinubu, on Tuesday arrived in Katsina to receive the remains of the former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London on Sunday at the age of 82.
Just hours before the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, heartfelt tributes have continued to pour in from beneficiaries of his many charitable deeds, with many describing him as a man who never turned his back on the needy.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday, Aminu Daura, a respected community elder, recalled how Buhari consistently provided foodstuffs during Ramadan for families, friends, widows, and orphans in his hometown.
“He never made noise about it, but many homes had food on their tables during fasting period because of him,” Daura said.
Abdullahi Sani, a physically-challenged man who received a tricycle from the Buhari Foundation in 2021, was overcome with emotion while speaking to NAN.
“I can move around and feed my family today because of Baba Buhari. I pray to Allah to reward him for giving hope to people like me,” he said, in tears.
Hajiya Fatima Yahaya, another resident, remembered Buhari’s acts of kindness during festive seasons.
“Even after he left office, his aides ensured that the usual support still reached us every year. He always remember his people,” she said, referring to his distribution of Sallah rams and food items to indigent families during Eid celebrations.
Other residents of Daura also shared memories of how the late former president quietly paid school fees and medical bills for struggling families, actions rarely publicized.
“Some of us benefited from his silent interventions. He was a true father and a great figure in the society,” said Ali Saidu.
On Monday night, Imams across various mosques in Daura held special Qur’anic recitations, praying for the forgiveness of Buhari’s sins and his eternal peace.
The Chief Imam of Daura Central Mosque, Sheikh Musa Kofar Barau, described Buhari as a humble leader whose legacy of service and compassion would remain alive in the hearts of the people.
Buhari is scheduled to be buried later on Tuesday in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, in line with Islamic rites. The community is bracing to welcome thousands of mourners from across Nigeria and beyond.
His Majesty King Mohammed VI of Morocco has extended heartfelt condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the family of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, and the entire Nigerian people following Buhari’s death.
In a message of sympathy, the Moroccan monarch described the passing of the former Nigerian leader as a “sad occurrence,” expressing deep sorrow over the loss.
King Mohammed VI hailed Buhari as “an illustrious leader who worked untiringly to serve his country’s best interests and lead his people toward further progress and prosperity.”
He added: “Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the bereaved. I share your grief and want you to know how much I appreciated the working sessions I had with the deceased.”
Reflecting on their bilateral engagements, the king noted that his collaboration with Buhari led to the launch of promising development projects, “ushering a new era grounded in friendship and close cooperation between our two sister nations.”
Tinubu arrives Katsina to receive Buhari’s body for burial
“He Never Turned His Back on the Needy” — Tributes Pour In Ahead of Buhari’s Burial
King Mohammed VI Mourns Buhari, Praises Legacy of Nigeria’s Former Leader
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