By Ewere Okonta and Nma Ewere
08037383019
www.ewereokontablog.org.ng
In a bid to address the aftermath of the tragic fire incident in Agbor, the Agbor Fire Victims Committee was inaugurated today by Rt. Hon. Victor Nwokolo, the Honourable Member representing Ika Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives, Abuja. The tanker explosion, which occurred on January 5, 2025, claimed multiple lives and properties, leaving the community in deep sorrow.
The committee is to be chaired by the esteemed Anglican Bishop of Ika Diocese, Bishop Godfrey Ifeanyichukwu Ekpenisi. Other prominent members include Bishop Festus Udume, former Bishop of Anioma Bishopric of the Church of God Mission International; Dr. Shedrack Omumu, a retired medical consultant representing the Collective Group of Onu Ika; Mr. Vincent Arimoku of the Ika Landlords Association; and Mr. Ewere Okonta, a lecturer at the University of Delta, Agbor, and social media influencer. Mr. Williams Eghebi will serve as the Secretary of the committee.
Terms of Reference
The committee has been tasked with the following responsibilities:
- To ascertain the immediate and remote causes of the tanker accident.
- To identify and track the victims of the incident.
- To determine the extent of damages to lives and properties.
- To propose solutions to prevent future occurrences.
- To carry out any additional duties that may arise during the course of their assignment.
During the inauguration ceremony, Hon. Nwokolo assured the community that the committee members were chosen for their high integrity, trustworthiness, and dedication to the welfare of Ika people. “This is a non-partisan committee composed of result-oriented individuals who have the community’s best interests at heart,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the committee, Secretary Mr. Williams Eghebi expressed gratitude for the trust placed in them and assured the public of their commitment to delivering their duties responsibly and on time.
Ika South Local Government Chairman, Hon. Jerry Ehiwarior, also commended the committee members for accepting the call to serve. He pledged the council’s full support in ensuring the committee’s success.
The devastating fire incident occurred on January 5, 2025, when a tanker carrying petroleum products lost control and exploded, resulting in a tragedy that shook the Agbor community. The explosion caused significant loss of lives and properties, leaving many families in mourning.
As the committee begins its work, the community holds high hopes for meaningful outcomes that will provide relief to the victims and prevent such tragedies in the future.
Ewere Okonta is the CEO of EOB Media. While Nma Ewere is a Senior Reporter with EOB Media