The National Emergency Management Agency has provided updates on the explosion that rocked the Bodija area of Ibadan, revealing that over 20 houses were affected by the incident that occurred on Tuesday night.
NEMA, in a statement on Wednesday, disclosed that a suspected Improvised Explosive Device caused the explosion, stating, “Over 20 houses were affected. Casualty figures cannot be ascertained for now. Search and rescue operation is still ongoing.”
The agency assured residents that security has been intensified in the area, and additional support is being arranged to facilitate ongoing operations.
In response to the incident, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde visited the explosion site on Tuesday night.
He commented on the preliminary investigations conducted by security agencies, revealing that explosive devices stored by illegal miners caused the explosion.
Makinde assured the public that further investigations were ongoing, and those found guilty would be held accountable.
Addressing the impact on the affected residents, Makinde pledged government support, saying, “Medical bills of victims will be picked by the government” and assuring assistance for those whose houses were damaged, stating they would be “supported to rebuild their lives.”
The Oyo State Police Command confirmed the explosion on Tuesday night at Dejo Oyelese Street, Bodija, noting that the number of casualties was still unknown.
However, the governor had confirmed two deaths and 77 injured victims.
The state government, through its X handle, urged residents to vacate the incident scene to enable emergency and rescue efforts without interference.
