By Kadelu Oluwole
At least 77 persons were said to have been injured in an explosion that occurred at Adeyi Avenue in the Bodija area of Ibadan, Oyo state capital.
The explosion which occurred at about 7:44 PM yesterday, 16th January 2024 in Bodija, Ibadan.
According to reports a loud bang was heard and vibration was felt across several locations in Ibadan at about 7:44p.m.
The cause of the explosion was due to illegal Miners occupying one of the houses in Bodija who stored explosive devices at the said location.
Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo State, says two people were killed in the Ibadan explosion, which happened on Tuesday night at Dejo Oyeleye Street, Bodija area of the capital city of his state.
Makinde, who spoke to journalists in Ibadan, said the explosion, which also injured 77 people and investigations are still ongoing.
We visited the scene of the explosion which occurred at about 7.44 pm yesterday, 16 January 2024 in Bodija, Ibadan,” the governor said.
“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.”
Earth moving equipment, ambulances, emergency lights, and security were deployed to the scene of the incident,” he said.
“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.”
Makinde assured residents that the state government will take care of the medical bills of all victims of the blast and also provide temporary accommodation to the victims.
We will also be providing temporary accommodation for those whose houses were affected and ensuring that they are supported to rebuild their lives,” he said.
“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”
