The death toll from the explosion that rocked Ibadan, the capital city of Oyo State, on Tuesday night has risen to five, according to the state government. The blast, which was caused by explosives stored by illegal miners, affected more than 20 buildings in the Bodija area of the city and injured 77 people.
Governor Seyi Makinde visited the scene of the incident on Wednesday and expressed his condolences to the families of the victims. He also announced that his administration had conducted structural integrity tests on about 230 buildings in the aftermath of the explosion and that 90% of the injured had been discharged from the hospital.
Makinde said the state government would cover the medical bills of the remaining victims and provide temporary accommodation for those whose houses were destroyed. He also vowed to bring the perpetrators of the illegal mining activities to justice and prevent such incidents from happening again.
"We have already deployed first responders and all relevant agencies within Oyo State to carry out comprehensive search and rescue operations," Makinde said, describing the damage as "devastating".
The governor also appealed to the residents to remain calm and cooperate with the security agencies as they investigate the matter. He assured them that the state government would do everything possible to restore normalcy and protect lives and properties.
The explosion in Ibadan has raised concerns over the safety and regulation of mining activities in Nigeria, especially in mineral-rich areas where explosives are often used. Some experts have called for stricter enforcement of the laws governing the mining sector and the storage of explosive materials.
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