Earth tremors in Abuja

Shaky Times in Abuja: Why Residents are Jumping Ship!

Tremors are shaking Abuja! Here's why some residents are fleeing and the FG’s plans to keep them safe.

Last week, residents in Abuja were left trembling—literally! The news of multiple earth tremors sending ripples through communities like Mpape, Maitama, Gishiri, and Katampe has caused quite a stir. The tremors, small but concerning, have struck a chord of anxiety among the locals, especially as these areas are known for their rocky terrains and extensive rock blasting activities. Social media is now buzzing with witty memes and jokes about how even our earth needs a dance partner, but underneath the humor lies a deep-seated concern for safety and stability.

To add to the drama, the community of Mpape is considering relocating, with residents expressing that they would rather pack their bags than risk facing a future that feels a bit too shaky for comfort. Meanwhile, the Federal Government is stepping into the mix, promising that they’re on top of the situation. Officials are launching investigations to uncover the root causes of these tremors, hoping that knowledge will ease the worries of those set to abandon their homes. After all, no one wants to be paranoid about moving furniture in their own house!

Dele Alake, Nigeria's Minister of Solid Minerals, has attributed these earth movements to “accumulated stress,” which sounds a lot like my procrastination-induced back pain! But on a serious note, the government is not only investigating but also monitoring the geological activities in Abuja to ensure further tremors won't have people booking one-way tickets out of town. Officials are taking this threat seriously, especially with the forthcoming flood risks from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam adding more fuel to the fire (or should we say water?) of anxiety.

In a bid to keep residents informed, the FCT agency has even set up a committee aimed at ensuring public safety amidst these geological disturbances. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry! But here are some interesting tidbits: do you know that Abuja sits on ancient rock formations that could be as old as 500 million years? Or that tremors, while alarming, are often harmless, even when they feel like the earth's way of giving you a little nudge? One thing's for certain—this isn't the last we'll hear of Abuja's rocky romance with the earth!