More trouble for Senator Andy Uba as FG investigates Calabar Free Trade Zone tragedy

The Federal Government Says, it is setting up a panel of Investigation to look into the tragic incident that led to the fire disaster that burnt down a tank farm and killed over a dozen persons at the Calabar Free Trade Zone at Esuk Utan Community, Cross River State.

The tank farm, Linc Oil and Gas, according to DAYLIGHT.NG findings is owned by controversial senator from Anambra State, Andy Uba.

MD Nigeria Export Processing Zone Authority, Hon. Emmanuel Jime says, though he suspects illegalities going on at the tank farm to be the primary reason for the incident, anyone or tank farm found culpable will upon the end of the investigation be prosecuted to serve as a deterrent.

He was Speaking in Calabar the Cross River State Capital during an on the spot assessment of the tragic event.

Last Sunday remains a dark day at the Esuk Utan Community as well as those doing business at the Calabar Export Processing Zone following a fire disaster that led to the death of 10 persons and others hospitalized.

The NEPZA M.D while at the Free Trade Zone inspected the tank farm where the incident began alongside other Federal Delegation who came with the M.D.

Addressing the press, Hon. Jime said, the government regrets the act which according to him was carried out against NEPZA’s safety regulations.

He reiterated the government’s determination to as much as possible try to avoid such tragedies.

“I want to use this opportunity of this platform to pay our respects to the dead and to also say to those who have lost their loved that our prayers are with them at this point in time.

“We can only say that, from the preliminary report that I have read so far, it does appear, somebody was actually meddling with the pipe. It is quiet safe to say, there was a criminal intention but we are not able to say that for now until investigations are thoroughly conducted”.

The team later visited some of the victims presently receiving treatment at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital. Additional report from Channels TV.