...urges strict adherence to safety rules

President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki on Saturday expressed grief over the deaths and injuries recorded as a result of gas explosion at Nnewi, Anambra State on Christmas eve.

Saraki in a statement by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, in Abuja commiserated with the families that lost loved ones in the inferno and wished those that were hospitalized quick recovery.

Saraki said: "I am especially saddened that so many innocent Nigerians died and others were injured in circumstances beyond their control on a day they were putting finishing touches to preparations to celebrate the Yuletide.

"It is most unacceptable that whole families and destines were wasted in this horrible manner due to avoidable circumstances. Clearly, this unfortunate incident could have been avoided if necessary preventive measures were put in place and safety rules applicable to such highly combustible operations were faithfully observed," Saraki stated.

The Senate President called on the police and the Anambra State Government to thoroughly investigate both the remote and immediate causes of the incident so as to prevent future occurrence, while he also urged the relevant departments in the Ministry of Petroleum Resources to strengthen their safety awareness campaign, monitoring exercise and enforcement of regulations across the country to safeguard lives and property.

Signed

Yusuph Olaniyonu

Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, to the President of the Senate