Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Hajiya Sadiya Umar Farouq, has described the fire incident of Wednesday October 16, which happened at the Upper Iweka, Menax and Ochanja Market axis of Onitsha, Anambra state, as “tragic, heartbreaking and very unfortunate”.
In a statement made available to Blueprint in Abuja Thursday, Farouq said she was saddened by the news of the fire and sympathized with families of those who lost their lives and those who lost their properties.
The minister commiserated with the Anambra state, Willie Obiano and the entire people of the state on the incident, describing it as “a huge loss to Nigeria”, even as she assured that the federal government will intervene with palliatives in due time.
The statement reads in part: “Our thoughts and prayers go out to families of those who lost their lives in this unfortunate incident. I am aware that many others have lost so much; as their shops and means of livelihood were gutted by the fire. No doubt this is a very difficult situation for you.
“I encourage you to remain steadfast as you hold on to the Almighty God for succour and strength. Rest assured that the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development will work with other relevant government agencies and the government of Anambra state to bring relief and assistance to you.”
It could be recalled that the fire started when a tanker loaded with Premium Motor Spirit descending from the Zik’s roundabout end of Onitsha-Enugu expressway, was said to have lost control at Toronto Hospital and veered off the service lane and emptied its contents, causing an explosion and inferno that left a woman and her baby dead, with over 40 buildings razed and death toll still rising.
