By Ayo Ayodele
On Wednesday, the House of Representatives directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to conduct a thorough assessment of recent tremors in Abuja to identify potential hazards and implement immediate safety measures. This decision followed the adoption of a motion addressing the urgent need to investigate the seismic activities affecting the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Kingsley Chinda, the representative for Obio/Akpor Constituency in Rivers State, raised alarms about the unusual seismic occurrences, referencing media reports and resident concerns from various areas, including Mpape. He stressed the significance of the FCT as a symbol of Nigeria’s integrity and stability, and expressed anxiety over the lack of clear explanations for the tremors.
Chinda noted that residents are increasingly fearful that these tremors might precede more serious seismic events, potentially threatening the structural integrity of the FCT’s infrastructure. He highlighted that while the FCT isn’t typically recognized as a seismic hotspot, certain regions have experienced climate-related tremors in the past, underscoring the necessity for proactive disaster prevention measures.
The House expressed particular concern about potential damage to critical infrastructure, such as office buildings, roads, and public facilities, which could result in loss of life, displacement, and significant economic impacts. The motion was approved, and the House Committees on the Federal Capital Territory, Environment, and Emergency Disaster Preparedness were tasked with investigating the tremors’ causes and recommending necessary legislative actions.