By Francis Sadhere, Warri

The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori have commiserated with victims of the Friday gas explosion in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of the State.

While commiserating with the victims in a statement issued in Abuja, Saturday, Omo-Agege admonished downstream operators to always ensure strict adherence to safety rules and regulations in order to avoid these unfortunate incidents that lead to loss of lives and property.

The lawmaker who shared in the pains of those who lost their loved ones in the incident, decried the incessant cases of pipeline, tanker and gas explosions across the country.

He stressed the need for strict enforcement of safety measures and regulations to halt the ugly trend, even as he urged Nigerians to be vigilant and adhere strictly to safety measures to avert future fire disasters.

He said: “I express my heartfelt condolences to the families of those that lost their loved ones in the gas explosion in Agbor, Delta State and pray that God grant their souls eternal rest. This is one explosion too many.

“I call on government at the federal and state levels to take stiffer measures against operators of gas plants and/or any combustible items in the state to avoid future recurrence of such disaster.”

Also in a Press Statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Dennis Otu, the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Oborevwori, described the incident as very unfortunate and painful.

According to the Speaker, “I am deeply saddened by the unfortunate gas explosion in Agbor on Friday. I share in the pains of those who lost their loved ones in the unfortunate incident. I wished it never happened.”

“My heart goes out to the families of those that lost their loved ones and properties in the gas explosion in Agbor. May God grant the souls of those who lost their lives eternal rest. I pray for speedy recovery for those who suffered various degrees of burns and injuries”, the Speaker said.