Around 7:44 p.m. on Tuesday, January 16, an explosion rocked Ibadan, the Oyo state capital, throwing residents into panic.
Early reports surfaced on social media giving different reasons for the explosion.
However, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, maintained that the state government was on top of the situation and had deployed necessary personnel to the affected areas.
What caused the explosion?
Speaking to pressmen early Wednesday morning, Oyo state governor, Seyi Makinde, confirmed that the explosion was caused by explosive devices stored in some buildings around the Bodija area of Ibadan.
“Illegal miners occupying one of the houses in Bodija had stored explosive devices there which caused the blast”.
The governor added that an investigation is still ongoing to find the illegal miners and bring them to book.
Are there casualties?
Governor Makinde revealed that about 77 people were injured from the explosion while two others were confirmed dead.
“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 assured residents that the state government will handle the medical bills of the victims of the blast and provide temporary housing for those who have been rendered homeless by the explosion.
“We will also be providing temporary accommodation for those whose houses were affected and ensuring that they are supported to rebuild their lives.”
The governor called for calm among residents and urged people to stay away from the explosion sites.
“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.”
How are Nigerians reacting?
Nigerians have since taken to social media, commiserating with Ibadan residents and calling for prayers.
What can you do to help?
While the state government is actively providing care for victims, you can lend a helping hand to support medical centres that have been overwhelmed.
There are calls for blood donors at the Accident and Emergency section of the University College Hospital (UCH) Ibadan.
There’s also been a call for medical personnel to offer assistance in Adeyi, Bodija area of Ibadan.
This is a developing story.
