The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, stated on Wednesday that initial investigations conducted by security agencies have indicated that the explosion in the Bodija Area of Ibadan, the capital city of the state, on Tuesday was a result of explosive devices being stored by illegal miners.
Governor Makinde visited the site of the explosion on Tuesday night and mentioned that while further investigations are still underway, anyone found responsible for this incident will face consequences.
He wrote on X: “Preliminary investigations by the security agencies revealed that illegal miners occupying one of the houses in Bodija had stored explosive devices there, which caused the blast.
“The investigations are ongoing. All those found culpable for this will be brought to book.”
The governor stated that two people died and 77 others were hurt in the incident.
“In total, we have 77 injured victims so far, most of whom were treated and discharged, and two fatalities. May their souls rest in peace, and may God give their loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Makinde added.
The governor also stated that his government would cover the victims’ medical fees and promised to offer housing to those impacted until they restored their lives.
He asked the locals to be calm, saying that rescue efforts had already begun at the location of the disaster.
“Earth-moving equipment, ambulances, emergency lights, and security were deployed to the scene of the incident. The wounded and injured are being treated and moved to public and private hospitals within Ibadan.
“Medical personnel are on standby at these hospitals to provide all-needed assistance to the injured. We have visited UCH to see some of those injured during the incident.
“I urge all residents to please call 615 for any emergencies they may be experiencing at this time and to remain calm and stay away from the immediate scene of the incident to allow rescue operations to be carried out without interference,” he stated.
According to Politics Nigeria, the explosion also affected a section of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Oyo State House of Assembly, the residence of former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Chief Bola Ige, and some buildings in Ologuneru, Apete, New Garage, Bashorun, Akobo, Sango, and Eleyele.
