Alake Urges Calm as Abuja Tremor Poses No Threat

The Federal Government has urged residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to remain calm following the earth tremor recorded in parts of Abuja, assuring the public that there is no immediate threat to lives or property.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, directed the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) to provide him with hourly updates on seismic activities around the nation’s capital for continuous assessment and, where necessary, escalation to relevant government agencies.

Alake, who is currently in Washington DC, United States, engaging American investors on joint venture opportunities in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, said the government had activated proactive measures to safeguard residents and critical infrastructure.

The minister’s directive followed a report by the NGSA that an earth tremor was recorded on Tuesday, August 4, at its Seismic Monitoring Station in Utako, Abuja.

According to the agency, the tremor occurred at exactly 11:23:27 a.m., originated from a depth of one kilometre and travelled about four kilometres within five seconds.

The NGSA classified the incident as a light seismic event, measuring between I and II on the Mercalli Intensity Scale, indicating that while the tremor could be felt by some residents, it posed no danger to lives or property.

The agency explained that such low-intensity surface tremors are generally characterised by slight ground shaking that may cause temporary discomfort or anxiety but are not associated with structural damage.

Alake assured residents that the NGSA would continue round-the-clock monitoring of seismic developments and provide timely updates as the situation evolves.

He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to public safety, urging residents to go about their normal activities without panic while authorities maintain close surveillance of the situation.