Ibadan explosion – Many feared dead and several people injured as heavy explosion rock Ibadan

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The residents of the ancient city of Ibadan on Tuesday, 16^th January, 2024 had a big and unusual explosion shake the city at around 7:45pm. The areas where the impact of the explosion was felt include; Bodija, Agbowo, Ologuneru, Sango, Orogun, Eleyele, Owalla, Ekerin and some other places. The explosion happened exactly at Dejo Oyelese Close, Off Adeyi Avenue, Old Bodija, Ibadan. The impact of this explosion was felt at about 500m radius. Some people claimed it may have originated from Gasland. Gasland Nigeria LTD released a press statement stating that they do not own or take responsibility for the explosion as it did not originate from their business facility even though the impact was felt heavily there too.

It is suspected that some illegal miners stored explosive devices in some buildings around Bodija, Ibadan which was said to have triggered and caused the explosion. About 77 people were injured and some yet to be ascertained number dead due to the heavy and sudden impact of the explosion.

The Oyo state government with immediate alacrity and utmost urgency deployed security officials and medical personnel to the major parts of where the unfortunate incident occurred and advised the residents of those vicinity to temporarily stay away to avoid risking their lives in the case of a second explosion and also pending the time investigation is completed.

A few individuals who witnessed the blast said their houses, gate and fence were heavily vibrated, some eateries like Dominos Pizza had the glasses in her front store shattered, Ace Mall beside Bodija Mosque had parts of it collapse and the University Teaching Hospital Ibadan had some of her louvers shattered too and several individuals agreed to the mighty impact of the blast.

The Oyo state government however has advised the members of the general public to remain calm as adequate measures have been put in place to bring back order and serenity in the area. The Government according to the report making rounds on the media have instructed hospitals to admit people who were brought in due to the impact of the explosion and commence treatment immediately.