Solid Minerals Development Minister Dele Alake has called for calm among residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) after reports of an earth tremor on Tuesday.
He has instructed the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) to provide him with hourly updates on the seismic activities around Abuja. This will allow for regular assessment and potential communication to other relevant agencies, as stated by his Special Assistant on Media, Lara Owoeye-Wise, on Wednesday.
The NGSA reported that on August 4, a tremor affected several buildings in Abuja. The NGSA Seismic Monitoring Station in Utako recorded it at exactly 11:23:27 am, noting that it originated from a depth of one kilometer and spread over four kilometers within five seconds.
Despite this, Minister Alake, now in Washington DC engaging American investors on joint venture proposals in the solid minerals sector, encouraged residents in the Federal Capital to continue their daily activities without worry. He assured that proactive measures are in place to ensure the safety of both residents and properties.
The NGSA described the tremor as a light event, with a magnitude of I to II on the Mercalli scale. They explained that such an event is typical for surface earth tremors and poses no threat to life or property, aside from the initial discomfort and fear of damage.
The Minister reassured the public that the agency would keep monitoring the situation as residents maintain their usual routines.
