Ibadan Explosion: Makinde fingers illegal miners, reveals number of casualties so far

Oyo State government and the Oyo State Police Command have confirmed the explosion rocked part of the State on Tuesday evening.

Governor Seyi Makinde visited the scene in the early hours of Wednesday and was also at the University College Hospital where some of the victims were taken to for treatment.

Giving the casualties, the Governor said two persons have been confirmed dead while 77 people suffered various degrees of injuries and are in hospital.

He said some have been discharged after treatment.

A post on his X reads, “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 relevant agencies within Oyo State to carry out comprehensive search and rescue operations. These operations will continue throughout the night.

“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.

“In total, we have 77 injured victims so far, most of whom were treated and discharged and 2 fatalities. May their souls rest in peace and may God give their loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

“I have directed that the medical bills of all victims be covered by the government. We will also be providing temporary accommodation for those whose houses were affected and ensuring that they are supported to rebuild their lives.

“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.

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.

“We are grateful to the first responders, security personnel and all those who are at the scene to assist with the rescue operations as well as the medical personnel taking care of the injured.

“Please say a prayer for those who have been affected by this disaster as we continue with the rescue operations.”

Earlier, that State Government in a statement released by Prince Dotun Oyelade, Commissioner for Information and Orientation, late on Tuesday said the government has deployed all rescue agencies to the scene.

He wrote, “Residents of Ibadan and immediate environ experienced an uncommon explosion about 8pm this evening.

“There are various interpretations of the incident but it is important for us to state categorically that the state government has taken over. Government has deployed all that is required to mitigate the unfortunate incident.

“All security service chiefs including para military chiefs and Fire Operatives have been deployed by the governor to Reign in the spillover from the explosion.

“His Excellency Governor Seyi Makinde therefore implores citizens to calm down and be rest assured that their interests are being looked after.”

In another development, the police said the explosion occurred at about 7:44pm around Bodija axis of the city.

“Explosion around Dejo Oyelese Street Bodija Ibadan around 7:44pm today Tuesday 17/01/2024.

The cause of the explosion is unknown.Number of Dead and Injured yet unknown as search continues.

Ample deployment on ground.” Police said in a statement on its X.