JUST-IN: Canadian High Commission Rules Out Foul Play In Fire Incident, Suspends Operations In Abuja

The Canadian High Commission in Abuja has temporarily suspended operations after a fire incident at its premises on Monday.

The High Commission also said the available facts about the fire incident pointed to accident rather than any deliberate act.

In a statement posted via the High Commission’s official X account (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday by Global Affairs Canada, it said two persons died and two others were injured in the incident even as it extended sympathies to the families of those killed and wished speedy recovery to the injured.

“An explosion took place in a generator room at the High Commission of Canada to Nigeria in Abuja killing two people, including a locally engaged employee, and injuring two others.

“Global Affairs Canada extends its sympathies to the families of those killed and wishes speedy recovery to those injured.

“We can confirm all other staff at the High Commission are safe and unharmed. We are now ensuring that the site is safe and will work with local authorities in determining the cause of the explosion.

“An investigation will be carried out but at this point everything points to an accident rather than a deliberate act.

“As a result of the incident, the High Commission of Canada in Abuja is closed till further notice. Canadians in need of consular assistance can contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 emergency watch and response center,” it stated.