Tinubu Sympathises with Canadian Govt as Embassy’s Inferno Kills Two Nigerians

Deji Elumoye, Michael Olugbode and Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has sympathised with the Canadian government, diplomatic community, and all persons affected by a fire incident which occurred yesterday, at the Canadian High Commission in Abuja.

The President, in press statement issued yesterday, by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, assured the Canadian authorities of the full support of the Nigerian government in the aid of diplomatic and local staff of the High Commission who were particularly affected by the incident.

Tinubu prayed for the repose of the departed souls and wished all injured persons a rapid and full recovery.

The affected office is situated at 13010G, Palm Close, Diplomatic Drive, Central Business District in Abuja It was gathered that the fire which broke out on Monday morning, led to the evacuation of staff from the building.

The fire outbreak left two Nigerian citizens dead and two hospitalised at the National Hospital Trauma Centre with severe burns.

The fire was triggered by a diesel tank explosion in the generator house at the Canadian Embassy.

FCT Emergency Management Agency ( FEMA) said the incident happened at about 10:45am today.

Reports noted that the two Mikano engines were being serviced by a five-man team from JMD company when it exploded.

One of the power generating sets was said to be working, while the other one was being serviced.

The fire occurred when the tank of diesel in the generator house, containing 2000 litres of diesel   exploded.

Two of the personnel servicing the generator were fatally injured and two persons survived and were placed on admission at the National hospital trauma  centre with severe burns.

FEMA’s Head, Public Affairs, Nkechi Isa, said the  FCT Fire Service which was mobilised to the scene contained the fire around 12.30 pm.

Ambulances from the Ministry of Defense ship house, Abuja Federal Fire Service ambulance and FCT Emergency Management Agency FEMA were on hand at the scene of the incident.

Reacting to the incident, the Acting Director General of FEMA, Mr. Mohammed Ibrahim Sabo, urged caution in the handling of petroleum products, particularly with the onset of the dry season.

He appealed to residents to always use the 112 emergency toll free number in the event of a disaster.