As investigations are in top gear, authorities have found a possible connection between the tragic incident and illegal mining activities.
The investigation is focused on a residence in Bodija, where there is suspicion that explosive devices were stored and utilized by illegal miners.
This was revealed via the official X handle of the Oyo state Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde.
Governor Seyi Makinde, after a personal visit to the scene, also reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to assisting those affected.
He assured the public that medical bills for victims will be fully covered, temporary accommodations provided, and comprehensive measures initiated to reconstruct shattered lives.
It was gathered that there were no less than 50 injured victims, a majority of whom have received treatment and been discharged.
Tragically, two fatalities have been confirmed.
In the meantime, Police PRO in Oyo state, Adewale Osifeso has urged members of the public to remain calm, stating that preliminary investigations are ongoing.
He stated this in a chat with a radio station, in the aftermath of the explosion that rocked the Bodija area of Ibadan.
He also confirmed that police and other security agencies are on ground to maintain calm in the environments affected.
Ongoing rescue operations are being executed with the collaborative support of first responders, security personnel, and government agencies.
Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government has set up an Emergency Situation Room for the Bodija Incident led by Professor Temitope Alonge, to coordinate the ongoing response to the incident.
Search and rescue efforts at the site of the incident continued overnight. Updates from the Emergency Situation Room will be publicised through official government accounts and media channels. The contact numbers for the Situation Room are 07049948057 and 08147672009.
Residents are advised to stay away from the site of the incident and call 615 free of charge for emergencies in Oyo State.
Also a public safety expert, Dr. Niran Adeleye has urged residents around the affected vicinity at Bodija, Ibadan to maintain a safe distance from the immediate scene.
He also added that those whose buildings were significantly affected shouldn’t be tempted to go back into their houses to pick valuables until their buildings are certified safe by appropriate experts.
Dr. Adeleye stated this in an interview on an Ibadan-based radio station’s newspaper review programme.
He also urged the government to investigate the blast throughly with a view to learning from the incident and forestalling similar experiences in the future.