By Stellamaries Amuwa
The Youth Against Disaster Initiative (YADI) has expressed concern over reported explosions in Edo and Rivers States that have reportedly left five people feared dead and at least 31 others injured, including a pregnant woman, while destroying homes, businesses and other properties worth millions of naira.
In a press release issued by Ms. Erabanabari Love Theophilus, the South-South Regional Coordinator of YADI, the organisation said the incidents underscored the urgent need to strengthen industrial safety, emergency preparedness, infrastructure monitoring and disaster risk reduction measures across Nigeria.
The incidents occurred in Oluku, Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, and Aleto community, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.
In Rivers State, a gas pipeline explosion reportedly occurred along Old Bori Road in Aleto community, Eleme LGA, following a suspected leak from a pipeline belonging to the Nigeria Gas Company.
The explosion reportedly injured at least 20 people and damaged about 50 houses, as well as shops, stalls, a mechanic workshop and vehicles within the affected area.
Similarly, a tanker explosion in Oluku, Edo State, reportedly left 11 people with varying degrees of burns, including a pregnant woman, while five people were feared dead.
The injured victims were reportedly taken to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital for medical attention.
YADI said the incidents highlighted the need for relevant authorities and operators of critical infrastructure to take urgent steps to prevent similar disasters, protect lives and safeguard property.
The organisation also stressed the importance of effective safety monitoring, timely identification of potential hazards and improved emergency response mechanisms in communities located near gas pipelines and other high-risk infrastructure.
It called for stronger disaster preparedness and risk reduction measures to minimise the impact of industrial and transportation-related accidents, while urging relevant stakeholders to prioritise public safety and ensure that affected communities receive the necessary support.
