Reps donate N18m to Enugu tanker explosion victims
The House of Representatives on Tuesday presented a cheque of ₦18m to the Enugu State Government in support of the victims of the January 25, 2025, petrol tanker explosion at Ugwu Onyeama along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, which claimed several lives.
A statement issued on Tuesday by the House spokesman, Akin Rotimi, quoted Speaker Tajudeen Abbas as describing the fire incident as a huge loss not only to the government and people of Enugu State but to the nation as a whole.
The Speaker noted that the gesture was “in line with the tradition of the House to ensure that governments and citizens across Nigeria are not left alone in times of tragedy.
“Speaker Abbas was represented by the Nnolim Nnaji-led Enugu State Caucus in the House, which included Martins Oke, Dennis Agbo, Mark Obetta, Anayo Onwuegbu, and Chimaobi Atu.”
The speaker commended Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, for his sterling leadership and his prompt efforts to comfort the bereaved and support the injured.
“On behalf of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, we commiserate with the Government and people of Enugu State over the tanker incident at Ugwu Onyeama. We acknowledge that you have done a lot to support both the injured and those who lost their loved ones.
“So, this is a cheque for ₦18m to assist the state to further ameliorate their losses and challenges occasioned by the incident. The speaker sends his heartfelt condolences once again. And you can continue to count on the support of the Speaker and the House,” Nnaji stated.
In his response, Mbah expressed appreciation to Abbas and the Enugu Caucus for their compassion and support, assuring that the donation would be used for its intended purpose.
Mbah stated, “On behalf of the government and people of Enugu State, I express profound gratitude and deep appreciation for this wonderful gesture. I recall that when the Ugwu Onyeama incident occurred, taking the lives of several of our loved ones, the Speaker called and assured us that he was with us in prayer.
“Today, he has also shown us that he is not only with us in prayers, but also materially. He has equally come to mourn with us. This cheque for ₦18m will go a long way in cushioning the effect of the incident on those affected and their families.
“Rest assured that as a government, we will ensure that this gets to them in a transparent, accountable, and just manner.”
The statement further stressed that the gesture is a demonstration of the 10th Assembly, House of Representatives’ steadfast commitment to responsive and compassionate leadership.
“The House remains focused on delivering people-centred interventions that improve the well-being of all Nigerians,” it added.
