•There were corpses all over street, says resident
•Makinde Says Stricter Regulations Needed, Nigeria Police Force Takes Action
•Federal Executive Council Responds: Committee Established to Review Explosives Laws
•NEMA Reports 58 Houses Affected, Niyi Akintola Shares Personal Loss in Blast
Residents of Adeyi Avenue in Bodija, Ibadan, Oyo State, are attributing the explosion that occurred on Tuesday night to Malian illegal miners.
The blast resulted in at least three fatalities, numerous injuries, and significant property damage.
President Bola Tinubu has called on government agencies to identify and penalize those responsible for the “reckless behavior” that led to the explosion.
According to a resident identified as Apa, the explosion was caused by explosive materials used by Malian illegal miners living in the area.
He urged the Federal Government to take action against illegal miners in the country.
Another resident, Taiwo Salami, expressed frustration over the incident, stating that everything in the affected area was destroyed, and billions worth of property would need reconstruction.
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Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who visited the scene, confirmed casualties and revealed that the blast was triggered by illegal miners occupying a house in Bodija.
Makinde emphasized the need for stricter regulation and hinted at seeking approval to store explosives with the military to prevent such incidents.
President Tinubu commiserated with Oyo State and urged relevant agencies to investigate the tragedy promptly.
The Federal Executive Council has established a committee to review laws governing explosives control following the incident.
The Nigeria Police Force deployed Explosives Ordinance Disposal experts to the affected areas.
The National Emergency Management Authority reported that 58 houses were affected, and the Oyo State Government set up an emergency situation hub to coordinate assistance for victims.
Temporary accommodations and financial support for hospital bills are being provided.
Niyi Akintola, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, shared the devastation of the blast, revealing that his hotel, along with other properties, was affected.
Several prominent individuals, including late Bola Ige and Bandele Aiku, had properties damaged in the explosion.
Governor Makinde urged residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities, emphasizing the importance of community awareness.
As investigations continue, the state government is exploring leads suggesting the involvement of illegal miners in storing explosives in the area.
The situation remains under scrutiny, with residents encouraged to contact a designated situation room for assistance and information.
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