Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, on Tuesday, April 22, donated ₦18 million to support victims of the January 25 petrol tanker explosion at Ugwu Onyeama on the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway.
The tragic incident claimed several lives, prompting national grief and calls for support.
Speaking through the Enugu State Caucus in the House, led by Hon. Nnolim Nnaji and joined by Hon. Matins Oke, Hon. Dennis Agbo, Hon. Mark Obetta, Hon. Anayo Onwuegbu, and Hon. Chimaobi Atu, Abbas described the explosion as “a huge loss, not only to the Government and people of Enugu State, but also the nation as a whole.”
He said the donation was part of the House’s tradition of standing by communities during times of crisis.
“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,” Nnaji said.
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“So, this is a cheque for ₦18 million 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.”
Governor Peter Mbah, in response, expressed appreciation to the Speaker and the lawmakers for what he called a meaningful gesture.
“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 that he was with us in prayers.
“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 ₦18 million 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,” Mbah stated.