The Federal Government has appealed to residents of the Federal Capital Territory to stay calm following the record of an earth tremor in parts of Abuja, assuring the public that there is no imminent danger to lives and property.
The assurance was given on Wednesday by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, after reports that several buildings in the nation’s capital experienced light shaking on Tuesday, reported.
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, in a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Lara Owoeye-Wise.
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 safety of residents remained a priority.
He directed the NGSA to step up monitoring of the situation and keep him regularly updated of any developments.
The minister said the government has already activated proactive steps to ensure the safety of residents and safeguard public and private property.
He called on the residents of Abuja to remain calm and go about their normal daily activities without fear.
The Nigerian Geological Survey Agency stated that the earth tremor was recorded on August 4 by the agency’s Seismic Monitoring Station in Utako, Abuja.
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The agency said the tremor was recorded at 11:23:27 a.m. and said it originated from a depth of about one kilometre below the earth’s surface.
It explained that the seismic movement travelled about four kilometres in about five seconds and caused light vibrations that were felt in some parts of the Federal Capital Territory.
The event was described by the NGSA as a light earth tremor with a Mercalli Intensity Scale rating between I and II, a level not usually strong enough to cause structural damage.
The agency said the quake might have caused temporary discomfort and fear among residents but poses no danger.
“This is a characteristic feature of a surface earth tremor that poses no 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 keep a close watch on seismic activities in and around Abuja and give timely updates as required.
He said there was no need to panic and residents should continue with their lawful activities while experts monitor the situation.
The minister reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to public safety, saying relevant agencies would remain on alert and respond promptly should there be any change in the situation.