By Ola ‘Kiya, Reporting
THE Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, has revealed that the explosion that rocked the state capital Tuesday evening was the handiwork of illegal miners in the state.
Amid hordes of casualties being rushed to various hospitals in the metropolis, he disclosed that only two persons were confirmed dead and about 77 injured.
At about 7.45p.m, Tuesday, January 16th, a loud explosion was heard in different parts of the state capital leading to pandemonium in places like Sango, Bodija, Agbowo, Ojoo, UI, Gate, Mokola and environs.
Gov Makinde made the disclosures after leading some state government officials to the scene of the incident Tuesday night.
Stonix News gathered that the explosion occurred at Dejo Oyelese Street, Adeyi Avenue, Bodija, Ibadan and that besides human casualties, cars and building properties were leveled by the impact of the deafening explosion.
A release shared on Makinde’s verified X page, revealed that the explosion came from explosives allegedly stored in a house by suspected illegal miners.
“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 prayed.
According to him, “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.,” he vowed.
He, however, 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.”
He further assured that the state government would adequately support the victims and those that lost their properties.
“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.
“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 noted.
What's your reaction?
