IBADAN, Nigeria – Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has formally received the report on the explosion that occurred in Bodija, Ibadan, which resulted in the tragic deaths of five individuals on January 16th. The report was presented to the governor by the Special Adviser on Security, Fatai Owoseni, who disclosed the latest developments in a briefing with journalists.
Owoseni revealed that three individuals of interest have been identified in connection with the cause of the explosion, and assured that they will face prosecution based on the findings of the investigation. He also disclosed that the type of explosive involved was ‘Water Gel Type Based Explosive’, which was triggered by an electric spark.
Furthermore, Owoseni stated that closed-circuit television footage from one of the affected houses provided valuable insight into how the incident transpired. As a former Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, he assured the public that the state government is committed to apprehending the perpetrators and ensuring justice is served.
In addition to the pursuit of justice, the government is also focused on taking measures to prevent opportunistic crimes and secure the affected area. An emergency situation center was established by the governor at the premises of Oyo State Housing Corporation in Ibadan, where a comprehensive assessment of the impact of the explosion has been conducted.
According to Owoseni, a total of 335 affected individuals, including businesses, religious institutions, and educational facilities, have registered at the emergency situation center, reporting various degrees of losses and damages. The chairman of the Nigeria Institute of Structural Engineers, Mbim Okutinyang, disclosed that 282 houses were affected, with only four requiring demolition due to extensive damage.
Moreover, the Head of the Emergency Operation Center, Temitope Alonge, provided an update on the medical response to the incident, stating that 80 victims were managed across various hospitals, with five patients still under treatment at the time of the briefing. He emphasized the ongoing efforts to address both physical and psychological effects on the affected individuals.
As part of the comprehensive response to the incident, the site has been cleared of any radioactivity, ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding environment, as verified by the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Agency. The government’s proactive approach in addressing the aftermath of the explosion reflects its commitment to safeguarding the community and supporting those impacted by the tragic event.