The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has confirmed that a fire outbreak at the Canadian High Commission in Abuja was caused by a diesel tank explosion. Tragically, the incident resulted in the loss of two lives and left two others with severe burns.
According to Nkechi Isa, the Head of Public Affairs at FEMA, the explosion occurred around 10:45 a.m. in the generator house of the High Commission. At the time, a team of five personnel from JMD company was servicing two MIKANO generators. One of the generators was in operation, while the other was undergoing maintenance.
The explosion was triggered by a tank containing 2,000 litres of diesel in the generator house. Two of the personnel servicing the generators lost their lives in the explosion, while the remaining two sustained serious burns and were immediately taken to the Trauma Centre at the National Hospital in Abuja.
The FCT Fire Service swiftly responded to the incident and successfully contained the fire by 12:30 p.m. In addition to their efforts, ambulances from the Ministry of Defence, Federal Fire Service, and FEMA were on standby to provide any necessary medical assistance.
Reacting to the unfortunate event, Mr Mohammed Sabo, the acting Director-General of FEMA, urged caution when handling petroleum products, particularly during the dry season. He also appealed to residents to contact the emergency toll-free number, 112, in the event of any disasters or emergency situations.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of safety precautions and proper handling of flammable substances. As we navigate through the dry season, it is crucial for all individuals and organizations to prioritize safety and adhere to recommended protocols to prevent such incidents from occurring.
By remaining vigilant and prepared, we can collectively work towards minimizing the risks associated with potential disasters and ensuring the safety of our communities.
