TheCable

At least 1,000 people have been killed since a 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck Morocco late Friday. 

The quake, strongest recorded in the North African country in decades, also left 1,200 people injured — with over 700 said to be in critical conditions.

According to the Moroccan interior ministry, so far, the earthquake killed people in nine provinces and municipalities including Al- Haouz, Marrakech, Ouarzazate, Azilal, Chichaoua and Taroudant.

It also said the earthquake was felt in neighbouring Algeria and Portugal.

The death toll is expected to rise still as rescue efforts continue especially in hard-to-reach places and those blocked by debris.

President Bola Tinubu, in a statement by Ajuri Ngelale, his media adviser, extended his condolences to King Mohammed VI of Morocco on the tragedy. 

Tinubu assured the government and people of Morocco that the heartfelt prayers and thoughts of Nigerians are with them during this difficult moment.

The president commiserated with all families affected by the incident, while wishing a full and swift recovery to those who were injured.

“In the face of this adversity, Nigeria will continue to stand in solidarity with Morocco as they recover, rebuild and come out stronger than ever from this unfortunate event,” the statement reads.

Morocco last experienced a mass-casualty earthquake in February 2004, when more than 600 people were killed in a 6.4 magnitude quake.