The bustling capital of Oyo State, Ibadan,, was thrust into chaos and uncertainty at approximately 7:18 pm yesterday, as an unprecedented explosion reverberated through the city. 

The sudden and intense blast sent shockwaves across the community, plunging residents into a state of panic and confusion. In the aftermath, divergent speculations emerged, with some attributing the incident to an earth tremor, while others insisted it was an explosion. 

As the city grapples with the aftermath of this unforeseen event, it becomes imperative to unravel the key facts surrounding the Ibadan explosion, shedding light on the causes, impacts, and ongoing response efforts.

Here are facts you should know about the explosion

• The blast occurred on Tuesday evening, January 17, an explosion occurred in the Bodija area of Ibadan, causing significant destruction of properties and injuries to several individuals.  
• The blast took place shortly after 7 pm at Deji Oyelese Street, Adeyi Avenue, Bodija, Ibadan North.
• The impact of the explosion extended to areas such as Ologuneru, New Garage, Apata, Ringroad, Basorun, Ojo, Akobo, Sango, Eleyele, and Imalefalafia.
• Prior to the explosion, there was a fire outbreak, contributing to the intensity of the impact on the explosive.
• Over 50 houses suffered severe damage due to the explosion.
• As of now, 77 people have been confirmed injured, and three death have been reported.
• National Emergency Management Agency, has deployed its South West emergency response team to Ibadan to manage the situation.
• The affected houses predominantly housed elderly individuals aged between 60 and 90.
• According to Mr. Odun Ogini, the General Secretary of Dejo Oyelese Vigilante, the explosive was stored in the residence of a resident identified as Alhaji Kamara, who is a foreigner.
• The incident is believed to be caused by the suspected explosion of an Improvised Explosive Device (IED or dynamite) stored in one of the houses in the vicinity.
• The Oyo State Government has established an Emergency Situation Room to provide swift assistance to survivors and victims of the explosion.
• The governor of Oyo state has also confirmed that the blast was caused by illegal miners
• The National Emergency Management Agency, boss reported that the ‘illegal miners’ that led to the explosion have been there for over 10 years