Residents of Rev. Akinrinola Street, off Dejo Oyelese, Bodija in Ibadan, Oyo State and its surroundings have found themselves grappling with the aftermath of a tragic explosion.
The devastation whuxh happened late yesterday, has led to over 70 injuries, with many fearing the loss of lives.
The unfortunate occurence tied to unscrupulous activities of miners have disrupted the local economy and cast a pall over activities in the area, with the specter of a potential secondary explosion haunting the hearts of the residents.
Dayo Olujobi, who visited the scene observed that rescue operations that were carried out to help those with emergencies.
Various security agencies have deployed personnel to monitor and assist in the ongoing operations.
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The Lurid Scenario
The scene at Rev. Akinrinola Street, off Dejo Oyelese Old Bodija, Ibadan, resembled a devastating tableau of biblical proportions. The ruins of numerous buildings in the area now mirror the ancient remnants of Jericho’s walls.
The incident has instilled fear in the hearts of residents who describe the blast as unprecedented in the city’s history.
Bystanders, particularly city residents, now live with the dread of a potential secondary explosion as responders tirelessly sift through the rubble in search of survivors or victims.
While speculations abound regarding the cause of the incident, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who visited the scene, attributes the explosion to the negligence of illegal miners occupying one of the houses.
He says:
These miners had stored explosive devices that triggered the blast.
In separate interviews, eyewitnesses, including Mrs. Omikunle, who lost her property in the rubble, echoed Governor Makinde’s assessment of the incident.
Government officials, such as Oyo State Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Fatai Owoseni, visited the scene, urging calm among the populace.
While the government has officially reported 77 injuries and 2 deaths, there is a looming fear that these numbers might escalate as responders continue their efforts to excavate the rubble and manage the situation.
In the wake of this tragic incident on what is now termed a “black Tuesday,” Ibadan residents intensify their questions and calls for immediate action to prevent a recurrence of such a devastating event later on or in future.
Could there be more? Find out in our subsequent posts.
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Written By Dayo Olujobi
