The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has confirmed three fatalities and 77 injured to the explosion which occurred at about 7.44 pm yesterday, 16 January 2024 in Bodija, Ibadan, the state capital.
Makinde who made a visit to the scene of the incident said on X (Twitter) that his govt has deployed first responders and all relevant agencies within Oyo State to carry out comprehensive search and rescue operations.
Adding that “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”.
The Governor 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.
He explained that 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”.
Makinde 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.
Expressing his gratitude, the Governor said, “We are grateful to 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”.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Governor has sent his heartfelt condolences to Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of Oyo State on the tragic Ibadan explosion.
On X(Twitter), the Governor said his thoughts are with the families of the victims, adding that it is a disheartening incident that calls for unity and support in these challenging times.
He commended the efforts of Oyo state Governor, Makinde for the swift response and deployment of first responders in the wake of the disaster. “The collaboration of agencies and rescue operations is crucial.
“The people of Lagos stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Oyo State, and we are ready to provide any support required during these times”, Sanwo-Olu said.
Also, the Oyo State Government has set up an Emergency Situation Room for the Bodija Incident led by Professor Temitope Alonge, to coordinate the ongoing response to the incident.
Disclosing this on X, revealed that search and rescue efforts at the site of the incident continued overnight. It stated that Updates from the Emergency Situation Room will be publicised through official government accounts and media channels.
While giving the contact numbers for the Situation Room are 07049948057 and 08147672009, Oyo govt advised residents to stay away from the site of the incident and call 615 free of charge for emergencies in Oyo State.