Ibadan Explosion: Three Individuals Identified for Prosecution, Says Oyo State
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, received the official report on the January 16, 2024 explosion at Adeyi Avenue, Old Bodija, Ibadan, revealing that three individuals have been pinpointed as 'persons of interest' in connection with the incident.
The report, submitted to Governor Makinde, detailed findings from Medical, Security, and Engineering Teams, indicating that the three individuals implicated would face legal consequences as per the investigation's outcomes.
The explosion, which claimed the lives of five individuals, left 77 injured and damaged 55 houses in Aderinola Street, Adeyi Avenue, Old Bodija, Ibadan.
Addressing the press following the report presentation, the Special Adviser on Security to the Governor, Fatai Owoseni (retd CP), confirmed the identification of the suspects. He emphasized that the government would prosecute them, pointing out that footage from a Closed-Circuit Television in one of the affected houses captured the incident's unfolding.
Owoseni disclosed that the explosive used was of the 'Water Gel Type Based' variety and was triggered by an electric spark. He highlighted efforts to verify the immigration status of the individuals involved, most of whom are reportedly from Mali.
Additionally, the Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) reported a total of 335 affected persons, including companies, schools, and religious institutions, registering at the emergency center. Despite the tragedy, the structural integrity assessment revealed that only four houses would require demolition out of 282 inspected.
Furthermore, Temitope Alonge, Head of the Emergency Operation Centre, disclosed that 80 victims were treated across various hospitals, with only five patients remaining hospitalized, indicating significant progress in recovery efforts.
As the investigation unfolds and recovery efforts continue, Oyo State authorities reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring justice for the victims and implementing measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
