By Zainab Bakare

On the evening of January 16, 2024, Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, was plunged into confusion as a deafening explosive sound reverberated through the city at about 7:44 PM. This alarming event unfolded across various areas, triggering different speculations among residents. Notably, some experienced violent earth tremors, leading to widespread property damage and the unfortunate collapse of several buildings.

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, addressing the situation in the early hours of Wednesday, January 17, 2024, confirmed that the explosion was caused by the explosive devices stored by illegal miners in the residential area of Bodija, Ibadan. The aftermath saw multiple buildings in the vicinity collapse, with the explosive sounds reaching areas more than 10 kilometres away. He reported a total of 77 casualties, including two deaths. In swift response, he deployed essential resources, including earth-moving equipment, ambulances, emergency lights, and security personnel, to the affected locations for rescue operations. Seyi Makinde assured that the government of the state would provide temporary accommodation for affected residents and guaranteed coverage of all medical expenses for the injured at the University College Hospital (UCH).

Governor Makinde urges the residents of Ibadan to stay calm and stay away from the scene of the incident.

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