Two died, 77  injured in Ibadan explosion  -Makinde

The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Wednesday, disclosed that about 77 persons were injured in Tuesday’s explosion that rocked the Bodija area of Ibadan, the state capital.

The explosion which left residents of the city in a serious panic affected a section of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Oyo State House of Assembly, the residence of a former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Chief Bola Ige, some buildings at Ologuneru, Apete, New Garage, Bashorun, Akobo, Sango and Eleyele.

One of our correspondents, who was at the scene of the explosion, reported that no fewer than 10 bodies were recovered from the site and taken away in ambulances.

But the governor said two people died in  the explosion

“In total, we have 77 injured victims so far, most of whom were treated and discharged, and two fatalities. May their souls rest in peace and may God give their loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Makinde tweeted on X  on Wednesday.

Makinde, who visited the scene of the explosion Tuesday night, added 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”

He also vowed to bring to book those found culpable.

Makinde also said the “medical bills of all victims will be covered by the government” while also promising to ensure that all “those whose houses were affected are supported to rebuild their lives”

The governor urged residents to be calm, noting that rescue operations had already started at the scene of the incident.

“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.

“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,” he added.