Following the tragic explosion that occurred in Bodija on January 17, the Bodija Estate Residents Association (BERA) revealed that approximately 10 individuals remain missing.
President of BERA, Mr. Muyiwa Bamgbose, stated that after a comprehensive consultative meeting, the association is intensifying efforts to ascertain the exact number of missing persons.
“In our mapping exercise, it seems to be around eight or nine, possibly even 10 individuals, as per discussions within the community,” Bamgbose explained.
He emphasized the importance of accurate information, stating, “If someone was present yesterday but is now unaccounted for, it becomes a cause for concern.”
In addition to the search for missing individuals, BERA is advocating for substantial assistance for the victims of the explosion as they strive to rebuild their lives.
The association highlighted the essential need for continuous care and support, particularly for those whose lives were dramatically altered by the incident.
President Bamgbose expressed gratitude to hospitals, such as Redeemers Clinic, for providing free treatment to victims, acknowledging the generosity of those who covered medical expenses out of pocket.
However, Bamgbose raised concerns about the disorganization in victims accessing government-provided hotel accommodations.
He acknowledged the government’s swift response but called for a more organized approach in such situations, emphasizing the importance of learning from the incident to enhance emergency preparedness.
While commending the collaborative efforts of the Federal and Oyo State Governments, Bamgbose stressed the importance of leveraging this experience to improve future emergency operations. (NAN).
Backstory: Ibadan explosion casualties, investigations, and arrests
A catastrophic explosion, triggered by illegally stored mining explosives, shook the Bodija area of Ibadan, Oyo State, on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, resulting in a devastating death toll and numerous injuries at the time of this report.
The incident, occurring around 7:45 p.m., inflicted destruction upon over 30 buildings, including houses, shops, and a mosque, and left a substantial crater on the ground.
Blame on illegal mining activities
Preliminary investigations by security agencies have unveiled that illegal miners, occupying a residence in Bodija, had stored explosive devices, ultimately causing the catastrophic blast.
Governor Seyi Makinde, who personally visited the site, pledged a commitment to justice and vowed to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, including the source of the explosives.
Ongoing rescue and response operations
Rescue operations persist, with first responders and relevant agencies tirelessly working to locate individuals feared trapped beneath the rubble.
A significant number of the injured have been discharged, and Governor Makinde assured coverage of medical bills for those still receiving treatment, along with providing temporary accommodation for those affected.
Government mobilizes resources and condemns incident
The Oyo State government has deployed security agencies, including the police, DSS, army, and Amotekun Corps, to secure the area and prevent further incidents.
National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other agencies collaborate to ensure a seamless execution of rescue operations.
President Tinubu calls for accountability
President Tinubu expressed concern over the blast being attributed to the activities of illegal miners, emphasizing the need to identify and punish those responsible for creating the conditions leading to the tragic incident.
Identity of alleged culprit revealed
During a Thursday plenary session at the Oyo State House of Assembly, it was disclosed that Sawani Yusuf, a foreigner, allegedly owned the property where the explosives were stored, leading to the massive explosion on Dejo Oyelese Street in Bodija.
The Majority Leader of the House, Sanjo Adedoyin, brought forth this revelation, underscoring the importance of holding those responsible accountable.
Source: The Informant247 News
