President Muhammadu Buhari has stated that sponsors of the illegal refinery in Imo state which led to the death of “tens of Nigerians” in an explosion “must all be caught and made to face justice”.
Recall that the incident occurred on Friday night at Abaezi forest in Ohaji/Egbema area of the state.
Over 100 people were reportedly burnt to death after a blast at the illegal refining site.
According to a statement issued by Garba Shehu, presidential spokesperson, on Sunday, the president said the responsibility for the loss of lives and property lies squarely on the sponsors of the illegal refinery.
Describing the incident as a “catastrophe and a national disaster”, Buhari directed the nation’s security and intelligence agencies to “intensify” the clampdown on illegal refineries.
The president conveyed “the condolences and the full depth and range of the nation’s shock and trauma” to the families of the victims, the Ohaji/Egbema community, and the government and people of Imo state.
He also urged community leaders, the police, and the secret service to never allow the occurrence of the heart-breaking incident in any part of the country again.