Advertisement
YADI Urges Safety Measures After Edo, Rivers Explosions
The Youth Against Disaster Initiative (YADI) has called for urgent safety measures, medical assistance and support for victims following reported explosions in Edo and Rivers states that left five people feared dead and at least 31 others injured.
The organisation also urged authorities to investigate the incidents and strengthen industrial safety, emergency preparedness and disaster risk reduction measures across the country.
In a statement signed by its South South Regional Coordinator, Ms. Erabanabari Love Theophilus, YADI said 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 suspected gas pipeline leak along Old Bori Road in Aleto reportedly triggered an explosion that injured at least 20 people and damaged about 50 houses, as well as shops, stalls, a mechanic workshop and vehicles.
Similarly, a tanker explosion in Oluku, Edo State, reportedly left 11 people with varying degrees of burns, including a pregnant woman, while five others were feared dead.
The injured victims were reportedly taken to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital for medical attention.
YADI said the incidents had not only caused injuries and property damage but also disrupted livelihoods, particularly those of traders and small-business owners whose businesses were affected.
While noting that the precise causes of the explosions required thorough investigation, the organisation stressed the need to identify possible safety breaches or negligence and ensure accountability where applicable.
It called on federal and state authorities, emergency management agencies and infrastructure operators to provide prompt medical care to victims, including specialised treatment for those with severe burns, while giving priority to vulnerable persons.
The organisation also urged pipeline operators to intensify routine inspections, leak detection, maintenance and risk assessments, particularly in communities located near gas pipelines and other hazardous infrastructure.
It further called for stricter enforcement of safety standards governing the transportation and handling of inflammable products, alongside improved early-warning systems and emergency response coordination involving the National Emergency Management Agency, state emergency management agencies, fire services and other first responders.
YADI urged governments and responsible operators to assess the damage caused by the explosions and provide appropriate relief, recovery assistance and compensation where liability is established.
It also advocated public awareness campaigns to educate residents living near pipelines, fuel depots and industrial facilities on recognising hazards, reporting suspected leaks, avoiding ignition sources and responding safely to emergencies.
The organisation maintained that disaster response should extend beyond rescue operations and immediate medical care to include livelihood restoration, psychosocial support where necessary and measures to address the underlying risks.
YADI urged all relevant stakeholders to act urgently and collaboratively to prevent similar incidents and strengthen community resilience across Nigeria.
