IBADAN, Nigeria – Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has revealed that the incident was caused by the activities of illegal miners. The governor confirmed that the explosion resulted in two fatalities and left 77 others injured.
Speaking to journalists at the scene, Governor Makinde stated that the explosion, which occurred around 7:44 pm on January 16, 2024, in Bodija, Ibadan, was due to explosive devices stored by illegal miners in one of the buildings in the area. This revelation brings clarity to the cause of the blast, which had been the subject of various speculations.
“We visited the scene of the explosion… This unfortunate incident resulted in death and injury to residents in the vicinity and also affected properties,” said Governor Makinde. He emphasized the state’s response, including deploying first responders and relevant agencies for search and rescue operations, which continued throughout the night.
The governor also noted that the injured were being treated in public and private hospitals in Ibadan, with medical personnel on standby to provide assistance. He expressed his condolences for the deceased and extended the state’s support to the victims, including covering medical bills and providing temporary accommodation for those affected.
Preliminary investigations pointed to illegal mining activities as the cause of the blast. Governor Makinde assured that those found culpable would be brought to justice and urged residents to remain calm and stay away from the scene to allow uninterrupted rescue operations.
Fact Check: The Real Cause of the Ibadan Explosion
Claim: The Ibadan explosion was caused by activities of illegal miners.
Context: Following the devastating explosion in Ibadan, multiple theories circulated about its cause, ranging from a gas explosion to a bomb. The incident, which occurred on January 16, 2024, in Bodija, Ibadan, resulted in widespread panic and speculation.
Investigation:
- Source of Claim: Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, speaking to journalists at the scene, stated that the explosion was caused by illegal miners who stored explosive devices in a building in Bodija.
- Evidence: Governor Makinde confirmed the death of two persons and 77 others injured due to the explosion. He detailed the state’s emergency response, including search and rescue operations and medical assistance for the injured.
- Verification: Preliminary investigations by security agencies support the governor’s statement, indicating that illegal mining activities led to the storage of explosive devices, which caused the blast.
- Counterclaims: Prior to the governor’s statement, there were various unverified claims about the cause of the explosion, including a gas leak, dynamite, and even an earthquake. These claims lacked official backing and were primarily based on speculation.
Conclusion:
Based on the statement from Governor Seyi Makinde and preliminary investigations, the claim that the Ibadan explosion was caused by the activities of illegal miners is confirmed. This conclusion dispels earlier speculations and highlights the need for stringent regulation of mining activities to prevent future incidents.