Deadly explosion in Nigeria's Ibadan: summary

What we know

• An explosion that occurred in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State in Nigeria, has resulted in the death of two people, injured 77 others, and wreaked havoc on many buildings and properties in the area. The explosion happened at 7:45 PM local time (6:45 PM GMT) in Bodija, a residential district of the city.
• Rescue efforts are underway with at least 15 people removed from under the rubble at the scene of the explosion. First responders and all relevant agencies within the Oyo State including the Red Cross Society, Nigeria National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), and other security agencies are involved in rescue efforts.
• Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde who visited the site has confirmed the casualties and indicated that preliminary investigations reveal that the incident was caused by explosive devices stored by illegal miners.
• About 30 buildings were affected by the explosion and victims of the explosion have been dispatched to various government hospitals within the area for treatment. The Governor of the area has directed that all medical bills of victims be covered by the government.
• Residents have been urged to stay away from the immediate scene of the incident to allow for rescue operations and investigations to be carried out without interruptions.

What they said

Governor of Oyo State Seyi Makinde said measures are in place to provide temporary shelter for affected victims and their families. He called for all to remain calm and for prayers to be said for the affected persons. “I have directed that the medical bills of all victims be covered by the government. We will also be providing temporary accommodation for those whose houses were affected and ensuring that they are supported to rebuild their lives.. Please say a prayer for those who have been affected by this disaster as we continue with the rescue operations,” he wrote in a statement on X. Former Deputy Governor of Oyo State Barrister Iyiola Oladokun whose residence was affected by the explosion said, “We were just watching the football match when the explosion occurred. All the doors that were closed were forced open. It was very devastating. All the doors, burglar proofs, windows, and even the roof have gone. We give glory to God that me and my wife were not hurt," he was quoted by Daily Post.

Below is the full statement of Seyi Makinde, Governor of Oyo State.