Abuja Residents Alarmed by Persistent Earth Tremors

Residents of Maitama, Katampe, Mpape, and their surrounding areas in Abuja have expressed significant concern over ongoing earth tremors that have persisted since the past weekend. These minor or brief movements of the Earth’s surface occur due to the same geological forces responsible for larger earthquakes. Previously, in September 2018, a tremor measuring magnitude 3.2 was reported around Mpape.

The recent incidents were notably experienced on Saturday and extended into the early hours of the following day. Residents reported feeling recurring vibrations, especially between 11:00 p.m. and 11:20 p.m. on Monday, causing widespread anxiety in the affected areas.

Affected individuals have taken to social media channels to voice their concerns and demand explanations from the relevant authorities. Shola Adesoye, a local resident, questioned the silence from organizations such as the National Geological Survey. “This is incredible. No news from our National Geological survey centre,” she remarked.

Tunde Dinero, another resident, emphasized that there has been no communication from the Federal Ministry of Environment, which is responsible for overseeing such natural occurrences. He mentioned that the vibrations have intensified at night, disturbing the sleep of many individuals in these communities.

Following the 2018 tremors, the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), alongside various experts, dismissed the likelihood of significant earthquakes affecting the region. The Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) had also installed four Guralp 3ESPC seismographs in December 2019 to monitor seismic activity in real time.

As the situation continues, neither the NGSA nor the Federal Ministry of Environment has issued a formal statement regarding these recent tremors. The lack of official communication has only added to the apprehension of residents, who are eagerly awaiting guidance and reassurance from the concerned authorities.