Over 100 Imo Youths Feared Dead At Illegal Bunkering Site

At least hundreds of persons are feared dead as fire engulfed an illegal crude oil refining site at Abaezi forest, in Ohaji-Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State.

It was gathered that about one hundred and fifty others sustained serious degrees of burns.

Speaking on the ugly development, the State Commissioner for Petroleum Resources, Goodluck Oprah, who represented Governor Hope Uzidinma of Imo State during his visit to the scene, said the fire consumed the lives of so many youths.

He said, “at the moment, I can’t confirm the number of the deceased because many family members have removed the corpses of so many others.”

Oprah said Okenze Onyewoke, the owner of the illegal refinery, had been declared wanted by the government of Imo State.

"Apart from this calamity, the act has destroyed the aquatic life of the community. Our people before now are predominantly farmers and fishermen.

“Look around, you’ll find smoke coming from this illegal act.

"If this is not enough for any person to stop, I think the community is heading for what I can’t describe.

“Most of the people who are engaging in this act are from Rivers, Bayelsa and other neighbouring states and it is sabotage for our people to allow this illegal activity to continue.

"I wish to appeal to our youths to desist from making themselves available for this illegal act.

"This is a suicidal business they got themselves into.

“On behalf of the Imo State Government, we condole with the bereaved family.

"Imo State Government prays to God to give the family of those who lost their lives the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”