Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has received an official report regarding the tragic explosion that occurred on January 16, 2024, at Adeyi Avenue, Old Bodija in Ibadan, the state capital. The report, presented at the Executive Chamber, Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, revealed significant findings from Medical, Security, and Engineering Teams.
According to the report, three ‘persons of interest’ have been identified in connection with the explosion’s cause. These individuals will face prosecution based on the thorough investigation conducted. The explosion claimed the lives of five individuals, left 77 injured, and caused damage to 55 houses in the affected area.
Addressing the press after receiving the report, the Special Adviser on Security to the Governor, Fatai Owoseni (retd CP), emphasized the government’s commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice. He highlighted that surveillance footage from a Closed Circuit Television in one of the affected houses provided crucial evidence on how the incident unfolded.
The explosive device used was identified as ‘Water Gel Type Based Explosive,’ triggered by an electric spark. Additionally, the government plans to verify the immigration status of individuals involved, as many are reportedly from Mali. Contrary to earlier reports, the incident occurred on Aderinola Street, with No. 8A and No. 8B identified as the epicentre.
Furthermore, the Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) has been instrumental in collating information and assisting affected individuals and businesses. As of February 3, a total of 335 affected persons, including businesses, schools, and hospitals, have been registered at the centre.
Governor Makinde recently signed an Executive Order placing obligations on individuals dealing with explosives. Despite the 72-hour window for declaration passing without response, the government remains vigilant in enforcing safety measures.
Mbim Okutinyang, Chairman of the Nigeria Institute of Structural Engineers, reported that only four out of 282 surveyed houses will require demolition due to severe damage. Meanwhile, Temitope Alonge, Head of the Emergency Operation Centre, provided updates on the victims’ medical treatment, indicating that 80 individuals were managed across various hospitals, with five remaining hospitalized at the time of the press conference.