At 7:44 pm last night, a powerful explosion shook Dejo Oyelese Street in the Adeyi area of Bodija, Ibadan, causing widespread destruction. The explosion’s impact echoed up to 15 km away, as stated in a press release by Prince Dotun Oyelade, the Commissioner of Information and Civic Orientation for Oyo State.
Bodija Scene of Devastation
Wellsradio 89.3fm’s Wednesday morning visit uncovered a grim aftermath: houses in ruins, cars destroyed, and properties damaged. The epicenter, heavily guarded by the army, police, and various security organizations, saw rescue workers combing through debris to save lives.
Residents, expressing sorrow and shock at losing their homes, gathered at the site, witnessing firsthand the devastation.
“Everything has vanished. The entire house, vehicles, and properties are no more. In fact, the entire area needs to be demolished due to structural defects. It’s clear: there are cracks everywhere,” stated Mr. Taiwo Salami, a resident whose house was reduced to rubble.
Casualties and Hospital Response
Wellsradio 89.3fm also visited the University College Hospital (UCH) Ibadan, where Mrs. Funmi Adetuyibi, the PRO, provided casualty figures. Twelve patients were brought in, with one confirmed fatality. Five patients were discharged, leaving six still receiving medical care. Injuries ranged from lacerations caused by shattered glass to chest pains, fractures, and trauma.
Mrs. Adetuyibi highlighted the hospital’s dedication to treating the injured, noting that since the patients were brought in as emergencies, they were not required to pay for treatment rather a bill would be sent to the Oyo State government. She added that the hospital itself sustained damage, with 16 buildings affected, though operations continued uninterrupted.
Government’s Swift Response
In response to the incident, Governor Seyi Makinde deployed security service chiefs, para-military chiefs, and fire operatives, as outlined in a press release from the Commissioner for Information. The governor expressed condolences, providing an update on ongoing rescue operations.
Governor Makinde disclosed that 77 individuals were injured, with two fatalities. He assured that the government would cover all medical bills and provide temporary accommodation for those affected, supporting them in rebuilding their lives. The preliminary investigation revealed that illegal miners stored explosive devices in one of the affected houses.
Emergency Situation Room Established
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the Oyo State Government established an Emergency Situation Room led by Professor Temitope Alonge to coordinate response efforts. The government urged residents to stay away from the incident site and provided contact numbers (07049948057 and 08147672009) for emergency communications.
Ongoing Investigation and Support for Victims
In a subsequent press release, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, announced the creation of an Emergency Situation Hub to manage victims’ needs. Victims were directed to the Housing Corporation premises in Bodija, Ibadan, where the Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, heads the hub.
The government emphasized its commitment to financing hospital bills for the injured and providing temporary accommodations for the displaced. As the investigation into the explosion continues, the government is exploring leads suggesting illegal miners as the possible cause.
Residents were encouraged to report any relevant information, with the governor emphasizing, “If you see something, say something.” The Commissioner confirmed that the explosion affected structures at the State Secretariat, with its impact felt up to 15 km away.
The people of Ibadan remain in shock and grief as the aftermath of the explosion unfolds. The government’s rapid response and commitment to aiding victims and investigating the incident provide a glimmer of hope amidst the tragedy. The Emergency Situation Room and Situation Hub stand as symbols of a coordinated effort to address the immediate needs and long-term recovery of those affected by this devastating incident.