From the situation of things in Ibadan, the capital city of Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde  has hinted that illegal miners operating in the state were responsible for Tuesday night’s explosion in Ibadan that rocked the Bodija section of the sprawling city at about 8pm on Tuesday.

It was gathered that the explosion could have been caused by dynamites kept by a construction company in a house or a vehicle in the community.

 

In a statement after visiting the site and other hospitals where the injured are receiving treatment, the Governor also confirmed that two people have died while 77 were injured and being treated in public and private hospitals around.

 

The Governor also promised that the state government would offset the hospital Bills of those that were injured and also directed all Hotels to accommodate those who have been displaced as a result of the blast.

 

His statement read: “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.

 

The Governor urged 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,” he added.

 

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