After Earth Tremor, Nigeria Bans Blasting Of Rocks In Abuja

After Earth Tremor, Nigeria Bans Blasting Of Rocks In Abuja

Sequel to the earth tremor that occurred in Mpape, Jabi, Gwarinpa and other parts of Maitama District of Abuja, the Federal Government has placed a temporary ban on blasting of rocks in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The incident that took place last Wednesday, Thursday and Friday had generated palpable panic among the residents who earlier thought the violent earth movement was the usual sounds from quarries until it persisted.

It was gathered that many high-placed citizens were forced to leave their luxurious homes open as they scampered for safety.

However, in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, the Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Abubakar Bawa Bwari, said the temporary ban became imperative to monitor tremor in the affected areas.

He said: “The attention of the ministry has been drawn to reports of earth tremor within Abuja, specifically in and around Mpape, Jabi, Gwarinpa and other parts of the capital city.”

According to him, following this development, the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) had commenced investigation by sending a team of experts to the affected sites for an on-the-spot assessment.

“In view of this, the ministry has directed the suspension of all blasting activities in and around the affected areas till the completion of investigation,” he stated.

Bwari explained that though initial results indicate mild earth tremor, “the public is hereby assured of safety of life and property since initial findings show little or no threat to lives.”

He said in unraveling what triggered the tremor, it was wise to halt blasting activities around the effected areas.

“Even though we would not say the tremor experienced may have to do with excavations around until investigations are completed,” the minister noted.