The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has revealed that preliminary investigations indicate that explosive devices stored by illegal miners were the cause of the blast that rocked Ibadan on Tuesday night.
Governor Makinde, who visited the scene of the incident, provided updates on the situation, stating that two people lost their lives in the explosion, while 77 others sustained injuries.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Governor Makinde assured the public that comprehensive search and rescue operations were ongoing.
He expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and pledged that those found culpable for the incident would be brought to justice.
“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,” Governor Makinde said.
The governor outlined the immediate measures taken to address the aftermath of the blast. He disclosed that medical personnel were on standby at various hospitals in Ibadan to provide assistance to the injured. Governor Makinde visited the University College Hospital (UCH) to assess the condition of some of the victims.
“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,” he stated.
Governor Makinde assured the public that the government would cover the medical bills of all victims and provide temporary accommodation for those whose houses were affected. He emphasized the ongoing investigations into the incident and urged residents to remain calm while avoiding the immediate scene to facilitate rescue operations.
“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,” Governor Makinde concluded.
