The Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) has reassured residents of Abuja that the recent earth tremors recorded in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) pose no major threat.
In a statement released on Wednesday, NGSA Director-General, Professor Olusegun Ige, confirmed that the tremors, which occurred between September 13 and 17, were closely monitored and are of low intensity.
According to the NGSA, its seismic monitoring station in Katampe recorded multiple tremors during this period, with the frequency and intensity peaking on September 16. The affected areas include Mpape, Katampe, and Maitama, but the tremors were classified as weak to light on the Modified Mercalli Scale, indicating minimal risk to life and property.
The NGSA attributed the tremors to accumulated stress along fault lines in the region, which triggered the seismic events. Despite the increased frequency, residents have been assured that the situation remains under control.
“Six of these events were captured on September 14, with over 21 events recorded on September 15, showing higher intensities. On September 16, more than 20 events were recorded. The intensity and frequency of the tremors appeared to increase from the 13th to the 16th of September, with weaker events noted on September 17,” the statement explained.
The agency added that preliminary analysis of the waveforms indicated that the source of the ground movements was less than 5 kilometers away from the monitoring station.
On-the-spot assessments have been conducted in the affected areas, and the NGSA is providing real-time monitoring to ensure immediate updates are available if necessary.
Professor Ige encouraged residents to remain calm, as the agency continues to closely monitor any further developments. The NGSA reiterated its commitment to ensuring public safety and providing timely information.
Residents are urged not to panic, as the NGSA remains vigilant in tracking seismic activity across the region.
