The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, has reiterated its determination to thoroughly investigate the recent explosion in Ibadan.
Last week, a devastating explosion occurred in the Adeyi area, Old Bodija, resulting in the tragic loss of five lives, injuries to 77 residents, and the destruction of approximately 58 houses.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State disclosed that preliminary findings pointed to the presence of explosives stored in a house by illegal miners as the cause of the explosion.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, emphasized the government's commitment to uncovering the true cause through forensic investigations.
In a statement released on Sunday by his Special Assistant on media, Segun Tomori, Minister Alake stated, “The Federal Government is now waiting for the outcome of forensic investigations that will determine the real cause of the blast, the explosives type that triggered it, and the circumstances leading to the unfortunate incident that led to the loss of lives and property."
The ministry has dispatched Mine Inspectorate officers to the explosion site to collaborate with other security agencies in unraveling the incident's cause.
The minister emphasized the importance of allowing security agencies to conduct their investigations, stating that it ensures accurate information, holds perpetrators accountable, and helps prevent future occurrences.
In response to the incident, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-West commended Governor Makinde for his prompt actions. PDP South-West Zonal Publicity Secretary, Sanya Atofarati, remarked on Sunday, "We (PDP) have confidence in the capacity of Governor Makinde and the security authorities for a comprehensive investigation that would bring the perpetrators to book and as well prevent possible recurrence in the state."
Expressing solidarity with the victims and mourning the lives lost, the PDP urged citizens to be more security-conscious. Atofarati stated, “We also hope the public would see the incident as an eye-opener to be more security conscious and report any activity that is capable of causing a security breach."
