Ibadan Explosion: Oyo Govt Calls For Calm
Following the explosion that rocked Old Bodija, off Adeyi Avenue, close to Dejo Oyelese in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital on Tuesday evening, the Oyo State government has called for calm among the residents.
Reacting to the unfortunate incident, Governor Seyi Makinde urged members of the public to remain calm while security agencies investigate to ascertain the origin and reason behind the explosion.
He said; ”The Oyo State Government is aware of reports of an explosion in Ibadan. Residents are urged to remain calm as security agencies are investigating this to determine the source and cause of the incident.”
However, there are viral videos online, showing dusty clouds, burning houses, and cars, as the explosion has been trending on various social media platforms.
The government added that relevant agencies are carrying out search and rescue operations at the scene of the incident, including all security service chiefs, paramilitary chiefs, and fire operatives.
Casualties and fatalities are not confirmed yet. But Governor Seyi Makinde wants everyone to stay calm and be sure that their needs and safety are being taken care of.
Update: Relevant agencies are carrying out search and rescue operations at the scene of the incident. Residents of the State are urged to remain calm as the Oyo State Government is on top of the situation.
— Oyo State Government (@oyostategovt) January 16, 2024
We Are Not Responsible – Gasland
Meanwhile, Gasland Limited, an indigenous company operating in the whole value chain of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) sector has denied being responsible for the unfortunate incident.
Reacting to the explosion that rocked residential areas in the Bodija axis of Ibadan in the late hours of Tuesday, 16th of January, 2024, Gasland Limited confirmed that the source of the explosion was not their plant.
Responding to media inquiries about the explosion, the company said their plant was fine and “whatever happened was not from Gasland.”
Its statement read thus; “No comment, However, we are all okay in Gasland. Whatever happened is not from Gasland Nigeria Limited.”
As of the time of this report, all relevant agencies were involved in the rescue operations at the scene of the incident, even as the Oyo State Police Command confirmed that the explosion happened around Dejo Oyelese Street, Bodija, and its environs at about 7:44 pm on Tuesday, 16th of January, 2024.
According to the Police, through their official X handle, the number of injured, and deaths is still unknown as the search and rescue operation continues.
Explosion around Dejo Oyelese Street Bodija Ibadan around 7:44 pm today, Tuesday 17/01/2024.
The cause of the explosion is unknown. The number of dead and injured is yet unknown as the search continues.
Ample deployment on ground. Updates coming up soon.
— Oyo State Police Command (@OyoPoliceNG) January 16, 2024
