The Federal Government has urged residents of the Federal Capital Territory to remain calm, following the recording of an earth tremor in parts of Abuja.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake gave the assurance on Wednesday following reports that several buildings in the nation’s capital experienced light shaking on Tuesday, reported.
In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Lara Owoeye-Wise, the minister also directed the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) to give him hourly updates on seismic activities around Abuja for continuous assessment and possible action by other relevant government agencies.
Alake, who is currently in Washington, DC, United States, holding talks with American investors on joint venture opportunities in the solid minerals sector of Nigeria, said the safety of residents remained a priority.
He told the NGSA to step up its watch on the situation and keep him posted on developments.
The minister said the government has already put proactive steps in place to ensure the safety of residents and protect public and private property.
He called on the residents of Abuja to be calm and go about their normal daily activities without fear.
The Nigerian Geological Survey Agency said the earth tremor was detected on August 4 by the agency’s Seismic Monitoring Station in Utako, Abuja.
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The agency stated the tremor was recorded at precisely 11:23:27 a.m., and said it was generated from a depth of approximately one kilometre below the earth’s surface.
It said the seismic movement travelled a distance of about four kilometres in about five seconds and caused light vibrations that were felt in some parts of the Federal Capital Territory.
The NGSA characterized the event as a light earth tremor, with a Mercalli Intensity Scale rating between I and II, a level typically not strong enough to cause structural damage.
The agency said the quake could have caused temporary discomfort and fear among residents but presents no danger.
“This is a characteristic feature of a surface earth tremor that is not a threat to lives and properties except for the discomfort of the shake and fear of possible destruction,” the agency said.
He assured the public that the NGSA would continue to monitor closely seismic activities in and around Abuja and provide timely updates as necessary.
He stressed that there was no need to panic and that residents should continue with their lawful activities while experts monitor the situation.
The minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to public safety, saying relevant agencies would remain on alert and respond promptly should there be any change in the situation.
