Makinde also revealed that explosive devices by illegal miners caused the explosion
By Kehinde Okeowo
Oyo state Governor, Seyi Makinde has confirmed that two residents of Bodija area in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, where an explosion occurred on Tuesday night lost their lives.
He made this known via his Facebook page, where he also stated that 77 people got injured during the unfortunate incident.
Makinde went on to reveal that explosive devices by illegal miners caused the explosion.
The governor later visited the scene of the explosion a few hours after the incident and direct medical personnel across Ibadan to treat all victims for free, assuring them that government would foot the bill.
ALSO READ: Illegal miners caused Ibadan explosion — Makinde
Makinde, in the social media post, said: “We visited the scene of the explosion which occurred at about 7.44 pm yesterday, 16 January, 2024 in Bodija, Ibadan. This unfortunate incident resulted in death and injury to residents in the vicinity and also affected properties.
“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.
“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 further added that he has “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.
“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 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.”
Governor Makinde thanked all 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.
He appealed to residents of the state to “say a prayer for those who have been affected” by the disaster as rescue operations continue.