A climate and seismic expert based in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Dr Anietie Ikott, has issued a stark warning that Nigeria could soon experience a major earthquake, potentially triggered by ongoing climate-related disruptions.
He made the claim while speaking on Saturday, dismissing the widely held belief that Nigeria lies outside the seismic danger zone.
Ikott, the Chief Executive Director of Anirich Nig. Limited, stressed that recent tremors recorded in parts of Abuja and the South-West are signs of deeper geological vulnerabilities.
“We are not immune to earthquakes; they can strike any time, any day,” he said. He cited the growing frequency of disasters like severe storms, flooding, and infrastructure destruction as further indicators of an unstable climate environment.
“We have witnessed frequent climate change-triggered disasters in Nigeria, such as strong winds and excessive rainfall that have caused significant damage, including the loss of lives and properties,” Ikott noted, pointing to recent destructive flooding in Niger and Borno states. He warned that an actual earthquake could leave lasting devastation, especially in unprepared regions.
Ikott explained that Nigeria’s complacency regarding seismic activity could prove costly. “Any part of Nigeria that is struck by an earthquake can never be the same again,” he warned. “The tremors in Abuja and Western states are clear proof that we are not safe.”
However, Ikott expressed optimism that the potential threat could be averted through innovation. He claimed to have developed a weather control technology capable of curbing not only earthquakes but also extreme weather conditions. “Earthquakes, excessive rainfall, and flooding can be controlled,” he said.
The scientist added that phenomena such as tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, and even ice storms could be mitigated through his technology, urging the government and relevant institutions to embrace scientific advancements in the fight against climate-related disasters.
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