In a somber response to the tragic explosion that rocked Ibadan on Tuesday night, President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating incident. The explosion, which occurred in the Oyo State capital, claimed the lives of two individuals and left approximately 80 others injured. Additionally, numerous buildings, vehicles, and properties fell victim to the destructive force.
A statement released on Wednesday by Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, revealed the president’s concerns regarding the attributed cause of the blast – the activities of illegal miners.
President Tinubu emphatically stated, “It is worrisome that the cause of the blast is being attributed to the activities of illegal miners. Those behind the inexcusable and reckless behavior that has created the conditions for the sad incident to occur must be fished out and punished.”
Expressing heartfelt condolences, President Tinubu stood in solidarity with the government and people of Oyo State. He called on all relevant government agencies to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The President directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to collaborate with the Oyo State Government to provide immediate and comprehensive relief to the victims. The gravity of the situation necessitates swift action to alleviate the suffering of those affected.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who conducted a preliminary investigation, reported that the explosion resulted from explosive devices stored by illegal miners in a house on Dejo Oyelese Street, Bodija, Ibadan. The aftermath of the explosion left a trail of destruction in various parts of the state, including the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Oyo State House of Assembly, and several residential areas.
While investigations are ongoing, Governor Makinde asserted that anyone found culpable for this tragedy would face legal consequences. The incident has prompted calls for enhanced safety measures and increased vigilance to prevent such occurrences in the future.
As the nation grapples with this unfortunate event, the imperative remains for authorities to swiftly bring those responsible to justice and ensure that affected communities receive the necessary support and relief.