Cross River Governor Bassey Otu Visits Gas Explosion Site, Announces Free Treatment for Victims
Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has personally visited the scene of a devastating gas fire explosion that occurred on Saturday morning in the Edibe Edibe area of Calabar South. The governor described the incident as shocking and assured victims of immediate government intervention to address the aftermath.
Governor Otu Assesses Damage and Laments Destruction
During his assessment of the explosion site, Governor Otu expressed deep concern over the scale of destruction, noting that both lives and property were severely affected. He stated, "What I've seen here is shocking. It's a huge, huge damage." The governor highlighted the inappropriate siting of such gas facilities within residential areas and emphasized the urgent need for stricter safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Otu remarked, "I know very well this kind of facility should not be in a residential area, but unfortunately this one is here. I believe that steps must be taken to prevent this kind of occurrence in the future."
Government Announces Free Medical Treatment and Compensation
Governor Otu disclosed that several victims are currently receiving treatment in hospitals, with many homes either destroyed or severely damaged. He assured residents that the state government would act swiftly to provide support. "We have several casualties in the hospital and people's houses have been damaged. Government is going to act quickly," he said.
The governor announced that the state would cover all medical expenses for the victims and consider compensation for those who suffered losses. "We will take care of them. We are providing free medical treatment for those affected and will also look into compensation to help them return to their normal lives as quickly as possible," Otu assured.
Victim Recounts Ordeal and Calls for Improved Emergency Response
Meanwhile, a victim of the explosion, Mrs. Rosa Asuquo, shared her harrowing experience and called for urgent government assistance. She alleged that efforts to contact the fire service during the emergency were unsuccessful, leaving residents without immediate rescue.
Mrs. Asuquo recounted, "While I was away, my children called me that there was a fire outbreak. When I got here, everything was already in chaos. I tried calling the fire service, but there was no response. There was no rescue until the fire went off by itself."
She lamented the extensive losses, including destroyed properties and injuries, and appealed to the government to assist affected residents while strengthening emergency response systems. The incident, which occurred around No. 69 Edibe Edibe, has left many residents in distress, highlighting the need for improved safety protocols and community support in such crises.
