President Muhammadu Buhari has mourned the death of the Chairman, Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission, Prof. Simon Mallam, and other victims in Saturday’s gas explosion in Kaduna State.

The president, who described the incident as ‘unfortunate’ said the death of the erudite professor has robbed Nigeria of a great scientist.

“I am deeply touched by this unfortunate incident that claimed the lives of Prof. Simon Mallam, his son and others.

“The death of the erudite professor has robbed Nigeria of a great scientist, whose services were acutely needed at a time we are increasing emphasis on science and technology for development”, a State House statement by Buhari’s media aide, Mr Garba Shehu, quoted the President as saying.

He added, “I extend my heartfelt sympathy to his family and those of other victims of the gas explosion. May God comfort these families and give them the fortitude to bear the loss.”

Thelagostimes gathered that the explosion, which occurred in a residential building, had claimed the life of the professor, who reportedly went to a barbershop in the area for his son to have a haircut.

The late professor’s son and three others also lost their lives in the explosion, which occurred at Sabon Tasha.

Sabon Tasha is in the Chikun Local Government Area of the state.

Meanwhile, the Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Balarabe, on Sunday visited the scene of the explosion.

The deputy governor and top government functionaries also paid a condolence visit to the family of late Prof. located in Gonin Gora area of the state.