The Governor of Oyo State Seyi Makinde
said on Wednesday that preliminary investigations revealed that the explosion that rocked the capital Ibadan on Tuesday night was caused by explosive devices stored by illegal miners.
Over 10 persons were feared dead and 15 others hospitalised following the explosion, but Gov Makinde said two people died while 77 others were injured in the explosion.
The News Agency of Nigeria
(NAN) reported by that the explosion occurred around 7.44pn at Dejo Oyelese Street in Badija area of Ibadan.
A number of property were damaged by the blast including the governor’s office, secretariat, and Oyo State House of Assembly.
Makinde told the media when he visited the scene of the explosion on Tuesday night that anyone found culpable would be brought to book.
“Preliminary investigations by the security agencies revealed that illegal miners occupying one of the houses in Bodija had stored explosive devices there which caused the blast. The investigations are ongoing. All those found culpable for this will be brought to book,” he wrote on social media on Wednesday.
The governor said two people died while 77 others were injured in the explosion.
“In total, we have 77 injured victims so far, most of whom were treated and discharged, and two fatalities. May their souls rest in peace and may God give their loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Makinde added.
The governor also revealed that the “medical bills of victims will be picked by the government” while promising to ensure that all those whose houses were affected were ‘supported to rebuild their lives.’
The governor urged residents to be calm, noting that rescue operations had already started at the scene of the incident.
“Earth-moving equipment, ambulances, emergency lights, and security were deployed to the scene of the incident. The wounded and injured are being treated and moved to public and private hospitals within Ibadan,” he said, urging residents to call emergency numbers for help.