Enugu: House of Reps Presents N18m Cheque to Victims of Ugwu Onyeama Tragedy

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas has described as “a significant loss for both the Government and the people of Enugu State, as well as the nation at large” the tragedy the recent petrol tanker fire that occurred in the State.

Abbas said this on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 while presenting a cheque of N18 million to the Enugu State Government in support of the victims of the petrol tanker explosion that occurred on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at Ugwu Onyeama along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, which resulted in multiple fatalities.

The Speaker was represented by the Enugu State Caucus of the House of Representatives, led by Nnolim Nnaji, which included; Matins Oke, Dennis Agbo, Mark Obetta, Anayo Onwuegbu, and Chimaobi Atu.

He emphasised that this support aligns with the House of Representatives’ commitment to ensure that Nigerian governments and citizens do not face such challenges alone.

Abbas commended the State Governor, Peter Mbah for his exemplary leadership and his swift actions to assist the families affected by the tragedy and to support the injured.

“On behalf of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, we commiserate with the Government and people of Enugu State over the tanker incident at Ugwu Onyeama.

“We acknowledge that you have done a lot to support both the injured and those who lost their loved ones.”

“So, this is a cheque for N18 million to assist the state to further ameliorate their losses and challenges occasioned by the incident.”

“The Speaker sends his heartfelt condolences, once again. And you can continue to count on the support of the Speaker and the House,” Hon. Nnaji stated.

In response, Mbah expressed his gratitude to the Speaker and the Enugu State Caucus for their concern, assuring that the funds would be used as intended.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Enugu State, I express profound gratitude and deep appreciation for this wonderful gesture.”

“I recall that when the Ugwu Onyeama incident occurred, taking the lives of several of our loved ones, the Speaker called and assured that he was with us in prayers.”

“Today, he has also shown us that he is not only with us in prayers, but also materially. He has equally come to mourn with us.”

“This cheque for N18 million will go a long way in cushioning the effect of the incident on those affected and their families.

“Rest assured that as a government, we will ensure that this gets to them in a transparent, accountable, and just manner,” he stated.