The Truth about the Ibadan Explosion — Governor Makinde

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde announced on Wednesday that preliminary investigations by security agencies have pointed to explosive devices stored by illegal miners as the cause of the devastating explosion that rocked the Bodija Area of Ibadan, the state capital, on Tuesday.

The tragic incident claimed the lives of at least 10 people, with 15 others hospitalized.

The Ibadan explosion also caused significant damage to prominent locations, including the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Oyo State House of Assembly, the residence of the former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Chief Bola Ige, as well as several buildings in areas such as Ologuneru, Apete, New Garage, Bashorun, Akobo, Sango, and Eleyele.

Governor Makinde, who visited the scene of the explosion on Tuesday night, assured the public that further investigations were ongoing. He stated that those found culpable for the incident would face legal consequences.

“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 tweeted on Wednesday.

Contrary to initial reports of at least 10 fatalities, Governor Makinde reported that two people died, while 77 others sustained injuries in the explosion.

He expressed condolences for the lives lost and assured the public that the government would cover the medical bills of the victims.

“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.

Furthermore, he urged residents to remain calm, emphasizing that rescue operations were underway at the scene of the incident.

“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 pleaded.