By Martin Cole-
ABUJA, Nigeria – An explosion at Canada’s High Commission in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, has tragically claimed two lives and left two others injured.
Nigerian officials have attributed the incident to a fire that erupted during the servicing of generators containing 2,000 litres of diesel.
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The explosion, which occurred on Monday, sent shockwaves through the diplomatic and local communities in Abuja. According to Nkechi Isa, a spokeswoman for Nigeria’s emergency services, the two individuals who lost their lives in the incident were Nigerian maintenance workers.
The injured parties, suffering from severe burns, were promptly rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention.
Canada’s foreign affairs ministry expressed its deep concern over the incident and initiated an investigation into its cause. Early findings, as stated in a ministry statement quoted by local media, suggest that the explosion was more likely the result of an accident rather than a deliberate act.
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This unfortunate incident prompted the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria to temporarily suspend all services. The decision was conveyed through a statement posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, underlining the immediate impact the explosion had on the High Commission’s operations.
President Bola Tinubu offered his condolences in a statement through his spokesperson. “I sympathize with the Canadian government, diplomatic community, and all persons affected by a fire incident,” President Tinubu expressed, reflecting the widespread concern and sympathy generated by the event.
While the investigation continues, the incident underscores the importance of safety protocols and maintenance procedures, particularly in facilities where large volumes of flammable substances, such as diesel fuel, are involved.
Canadian officials are working closely with Nigerian authorities to determine the exact cause of the explosion and to ensure the safety and security of diplomatic missions in the country.
As both nations await further information regarding the incident, the hearts and prayers of many go out to the families of the victims, the injured, and the Canadian diplomatic community in Nigeria, as they come to terms with the tragic event.
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