Tragedy struck the city of Ibadan in Oyo State as the death toll from Tuesday’s explosion rose to five, according to a briefing by Fatai Owoseni, the Special Adviser on Security Matters to Governor Seyi Makinde. Two additional bodies were recovered, highlighting the ongoing rescue efforts in the affected area.
Speaking at a press briefing, Owoseni stated, “As of yesterday (Wednesday), we had three casualties, but this morning (Thursday), I got information from the security operatives in Ibadan supporting the medical team that two more dead bodies were recovered.” He emphasized the commitment of security agencies, including the police, Department of State Services, and the Nigerian Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, to gather information for prosecution against those connected with the incident.
The Ibadan explosion, which occurred in the Adeyi area at Old Bodija, damaged 58 houses and caused serious injuries to 77 residents. A heavy military presence has since been deployed to secure the site, with armed soldiers restricting access to prevent looting.
Residents of Ibadan in the affected area have either relocated or joined loved ones at Emergency Operation Centers provided by the state government for structural integrity tests. The soldiers stationed at the scene are preventing unauthorized entry to safeguard the property of affected victims.
Reports from residents suggest that some properties were sold indiscriminately to foreigners, prompting calls for a review of property acquisition and transfer laws within the estate. Amidst the aftermath, the Head of the Emergency Operation Centre, Temitope Alonge, affirmed the ongoing search for survivors and the deployment of earth-moving equipment to clear debris and possibly rescue more victims.
Governor Seyi Makinde, who has visited victims to offer support, has vowed that the perpetrators of the explosion will face justice. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army has refuted claims of terrorism, stating that their personnel have been involved in the rescue mission since the incident occurred. Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, clarified that the incident was not a terrorist attack, affirming the army’s role in the ongoing rescue operations.