Turkey Earthquake: Nigerian community reaches out to citizens in affected cities
The Nigerian Community in Turkey has opened a response line for all Nigerians living in cities affected by the earthquake to make their cases known.
The Punch reports that the group in a statement signed by its president, Emre Magboh, noted that the Nigerian Embassy had contacted them on multiple occasions since the unfortunate tragedy of the earthquakes to inquire about the situation of its citizens residing in Turkey.
It could be recalled that on Monday, two major earthquakes, measuring 7.8 and 7.5, hit the city of Gaziantep in southeastern Turkey.
READ ALSO: Earthquake: Turkey-based Nigerian explains how he and family escaped death
Over 11,000 people have already died as a result of the earthquakes, thousands more have been injured, and many more are still unaccounted for in south-eastern Turkey. The quakes devastated a vast area, including huge towns where many people live.
According to the Red Cross, at least ten provinces in Turkey and Syria, including Diyarbakir, Hama, Aleppo, Latakia, and Tartous, among others have been rocked by earthquakes.
Although there had been no reports of Nigerians being harmed by the earthquakes, the Nigerian Community in Turkey stated in its statement that it had distributed aid supplies to those in need in the affected areas.
READ ALSO: Deadly Earthquake: PMB condoles with Turkey as quake death toll rises
Magboh said, “As of press time, no Nigerian casualty had been reported or recorded as more survivors are being rescued from the rubbles. The Nigerian Embassy has made several contacts with the Nigerian Community in Turkey to inquire about the status of her citizens living in Turkey.
“However, we have made public announcements and opened a response line for all Nigerians living in the affected cities to make their case known.
“This is to ensure that proper assistance is given to victims of the earthquakes who are Nigerians.
A text message obtained in the same regard reads, “Nigerian community Turkey wishes to reach out to all members following the quake disaster that claimed lives.
“We hope you are all safe. Let’s try to reach out to our fellow brothers and sisters, especially in the southern part of Türkiye. Any report of Nigerian casualties should be reported through the community line: +90 535 2058 834. Everyone should please stay safe.”
Magbo also extended their condolences to the victims on Tuesday in his office in Perpa, Istanbul-Turkey, where he revealed relief supplies provided by the community for catastrophe survivors.
Recep Erdogan, the president of Turkey, had earlier proclaimed a state of emergency in 10 provinces in the regions most severely affected by the earthquake.
Magboh expressed grief over the loss of lives and properties in the affected cities.
He said, “We pray for the repose of the ones who lost their lives and wish survivors with injuries a quick recovery.
The president applauded the Turkish government for its diligent efforts in rescuing those trapped under the rubble.
He added, “Many lives have been saved and we hope that many more lives would be saved with their continued doggedness to save lives.
“We also applaud the foreign support to Turkiye as reported in the media and we are calling for more assistance and interventions to relieve the pains many are experiencing at the moment.”
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