The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed sadness over the petrol tanker explosion at Ahumbe and communal clash in Agatu, both in Benue state, that have led to loss of scores of lives and destruction of properties.
A statement signed by ACF National Publicity Secretary, Malam Muhammad Ibrahim Biu on Wednesday in Kaduna said, “Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) is deeply touched over the unfortunate petrol tanker explosion that occurred at Ahumbe village along Makurdi- Aliade road in Benue state on July 1, 2019.
“The explosion where scores of people were killed, some injured and property destroyed was devastating and painful not only to the victims but also to their families, the people and government of Benue state as well as ACF and the North.
“ACF therefore, sympathizes with the victims, the government and people of Benue state over this unfortunate disaster, and pray God to give them the strength and courage to endure what cannot be changed. The pains and inconveniences this disaster has caused the affected people of Ahumbe village are unimaginable.
“ACF therefore appeals to the Benue state government through the State’s Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to quickly render all necessary assistance to the victims of the petrol explosion, especially the injured ones who are receiving treatment in the hospitals.
“ACF equally appeals to Nigerians to always avoid sites of such dangerous incidents in order not to become victims of the disaster. The Forum urges the Fire Service Departments and other appropriate agencies responsible for containing such disasters to always be proactive in securing the venues of such accidents in order to curtail its spread and further destruction.
“ACF equally expresses its sadness over the unfortunate ethnic clashes that occurred at Agatu in Benue state over a disagreement on a fishing pond that resulted into huge loss of lives and destruction of property. This is a clash too many.
“The Forum, therefore, appeals to Nigerians to always employ dialogue in resolving grievances rather than resorting to needless violence that have not been helpful to any peaceful coexistence.
“ACF extends its condolences to those who lost their loved ones in the petrol tanker explosion, the ethnic clash at Agatu, and also commiserates with the government and people of Benue state, as well as pray God to provide the fortitude to endure the irreparable losses,” Biu added.
