The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Wednesday, said preliminary investigations by security agencies revealed that the explosion that rocked the Bodija Area of Ibadan, the state capital, on Tuesday was caused by explosive devices stored by illegal miners.
Governor Makinde, who visited the explosion scene Tuesday night, said that although further investigations were ongoing, anyone found guilty would be brought to book.
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 said two people died while 77 others were injured in the explosion.
“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 revealed that the victims’ medical bills would be taken care of by his government while promising to provide accommodation to those affected until they rebuilt their lives.
He urged residents to be calm, noting that rescue operations had already started at the scene of the incident.
“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.
Politics Nigeria gathered that the explosion that also affected a section of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Oyo State House of Assembly, the residence of the former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Chief Bola Ige, some buildings at Ologuneru, Apete, New Garage, Bashorun, Akobo, Sango and Eleyele.
Watch the video below:
We visited the scene of the explosion which occurred at about 7.44 pm yesterday, 16 January 2024 in Bodija, Ibadan. This unfortunate incident resulted in death and injury to residents in the vicinity and also affected properties. We have already deployed first responders and all… pic.twitter.com/fDb3EKo55h
— Seyi Makinde (@seyiamakinde) January 17, 2024
