On Wednesday, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde stated that initial investigations by security agencies revealed that the explosion in the Bodija Area of Ibadan, the state capital on Tuesday, was caused by explosive devices stored by illegal miners.
The blast, which occurred on Tuesday, resulted in the feared death of at least 10 individuals and hospitalization of 15 others. The impact extended to a section of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Oyo State House of Assembly, and residences in various locations including Ologuneru, Apete, New Garage, Bashorun, Akobo, Sango, and Eleyele.
Governor Makinde visited the scene Tuesday night, and while further investigations are ongoing, he pledged that anyone found responsible would face legal consequences. He tweeted, “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.”
A correspondent at the scene reported the recovery of at least 10 bodies, but Governor Makinde stated that two people died while 77 others were injured in the explosion. He expressed condolences and assured that the government would cover the medical bills of the victims. Additionally, he promised support for those whose houses were affected to rebuild their lives.
The governor urged residents to remain calm as rescue operations were already underway. He provided information about the deployment of resources and medical personnel to treat and assist the injured. Residents were encouraged to call 615 for emergencies and to stay away from the immediate scene to facilitate uninterrupted rescue operations.
