Last night, pandemonium erupted in different areas of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital as residents were alarmed by a deafening sound of a massive explosion that shook most parts of the city.
According to reports, major places in Ibadan metropolis and the outskirts of the city felt the tremor some minutes before 8pm on Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
It was gathered that several houses were shaken by the explosion, which caused series of damages at multiple locations, according to X users.
Videos posted on X platform, show windows of houses blown out at multiple locations, including at homes, and parts of the ceiling collapsed at Ace Mall, Bodija.
However, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, in an interview at the explosion site, acknowledged that the regrettable incident resulted in loss of lives, numerous injuries, and extensive property damage.
This Newspaper highlights Seven key moments of the unfortunate event include;
1. Explosion Details: The incident occurred at 7:44 pm on January 16, 2024, in Bodija, Ibadan, causing fatalities, injuries, and property damage.
2. Affected Parts of the State: According to reports, some residents of Ologuneru, Owalla, Isokan, Ekerin, Eleyele and parts of Apete said they felt the shaking.
Other places affected are Olodo, Apata, Iyana church, Sango, Agbowo, Bodija Housing and others.
Also reports has it that the blast shook the School of Nursing hostel of the University College Hospital and shattered all the windows.
3. Casualty Update: As of the time of this report, Makinde disclosed that there are two fatalities and 77 injured victims, with most treated and discharged, adding that the government will cover medical bills for all victims.
4. Cause of Explosion: According to the governor’s statement, preliminary investigations indicate that illegal miners storing explosive devices in one of the houses caused the blast. Although this is still in doubt as the explosion occured up to 10km away from the said building.
5. Hospital Visits: The Governor visited the University College Hospital (UCH) to assess the condition of some of the injured victims.
6. Response Actions: The Governor disclosed that first responders and relevant agencies within the State have been deployed for comprehensive search and rescue operations, continuing throughout the night.
7. Support Measures: Governor Mankide further promised to provide temporary accommodation for those whose houses were affected, and assistance will be given to support their efforts to rebuild their lives.
The Governor further urged residents to call the telephone number 615 for emergencies and to avoid interfering with rescue operations.
