In fulfilment of the promise to bring succour to victims of the Soba Explosion in Abule-Ado, the Lagos State Government on Wednesday presented cheques to families of the 23 deceased victims of the disaster.
Speaking today at the disbursement ceremony, the State Deputy Governor, who also doubles as Chairman of the Emergency Relief Committee, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, stated that the presentation is meant to mitigate the impact of the tragedy on members of the families.
Dr. Hamzat stated further that the gesture is part of the government’s efforts to assist the victims, assuring that the Committee is in contact with the Electricity Distribution Company to restore power to the area, just as interaction is ongoing with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation on the status of the pipelines.
He reiterated that the State government is committed to the social pact of providing leadership that guarantees the safety of lives and property of the citizens, stressing that efforts are being made to re-plan the community to guide against re-occurrence.
While commiserating with the next of kin and family members of the 23 deceased persons, Dr. Hamzat disclosed that the present administration is also settling the hospital bills of the victims and taking responsibility for the wellbeing of displaced families sheltered at the State Emergency Relief Camp.
“I assure you that we feel and share in your pains; you will continue to be in our prayers as no life can be equated to material compensation”, he stated.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Engr. Tayo Bamgbose-Martins asserted that the event is a demonstration of the State government’s commitment to alleviating the pains of victims of the explosion.
He added that the payment is also to remind the victims and their families of the administration’s compassion, even as the Committee continues its work towards the return of normal life in the community.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Director, Education Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, Monsignor Jerome Oduntan thanked the State government for the kind gesture and support.
He applauded government for the efforts made so far to ensure that normalcy returns to the area as soon as possible.
