May 05, (THEWILL) — The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed deep sorrow over the deadly explosion at a fireworks factory in Hunan Province, China, joining global voices in mourning the victims of the industrial disaster that claimed dozens of lives and left many others injured.
THEWILL reports that the tragic incident occurred at the Huasheng Fireworks plant in Liuyang City, People’s Republic of China, on Monday afternoon, reportedly killing at least 26 people and injuring 61 others, according to Chinese state media reports cited by the BBC.
Emergency authorities in China confirmed that search and rescue operations have since been concluded after intensive efforts to comb through the wreckage for survivors.
Seven people were successfully rescued from the debris with the aid of trained dogs, drones, and robotic equipment deployed at the scene.
In response to the disaster, Chinese authorities evacuated residents within a three-kilometre radius of the facility as a safety precaution.
More than 1,500 emergency responders were deployed to the site to manage rescue operations, secure the area, and support recovery efforts.
Reacting to the tragedy, the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, extended heartfelt condolences to the Chinese government and the families of the victims.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria described the incident as heartbreaking and reaffirmed its solidarity with China during this period of national mourning.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria extends heartfelt condolences to the Government and People of the People’s Republic of China following the tragic explosion at a fireworks factory in Liuyang City, Hunan Province,” the statement said.
The Federal Government also commended the swift response of Chinese emergency services, noting their efforts in saving lives and preventing further escalation of the disaster.
It expressed sympathy to bereaved families, the injured, and all those affected, stressing that Nigeria shares in the pain of the Chinese people over the sudden and devastating loss.
“Nigeria expresses its deepest sympathies to the bereaved families, the injured, and all those affected by this tragic event,” the statement added.
Reaffirming the longstanding diplomatic relationship between both nations, the Federal Government emphasized continued cooperation and mutual support in times of crisis and progress.
“The Government and people of Nigeria stand in solidarity with the people of China during this difficult time, recognising the shared human pain that accompanies such sudden and devastating loss,” it stated.
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