The explosion that shook the Bodija neighbourhood of Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, on Tuesday night was likely caused by an IED explosion, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), which made the announcement on Wednesday.
The organisation reported that more than twenty houses in the vicinity were impacted by this incident.
This was revealed in a situation report that was uploaded on Wednesday on its handle.
To the explosion site. Upon reaching the location, it was noted that more than twenty residences had been impacted by what appeared to be an IED blast. At this time, the number of casualties is unknown. The search and rescue mission is still active.
“Stakeholders present include NPF, NSCDC, DSS, SEMA, Nigeria Army, Federal and State fire service, Nigerian Red Cross, State ministery of Environment, Amotekun Corps.
More resources are being mobilize to support the on going SAR Operations. Search and Rescue operation at the scene of the incident was temporarily suspended to allow responders to refresh. SAR Operations resume 7.00am in the morning.
“Security has been beefed up in the area while arrangements for more support to facilitate the operations are in progress.
“The situation has been brought under control while arrangements are going on to ensure smooth operation,” the post read
Earlier indicated that at least 77 persons were confirmed injured while two reportedly died due to the explosion.
In related development, the State governor, Mr Seyi Makinde, when he visited the scene few hours after the incident, said illegal miners who stored explosives in one of the houses in Bodija caused the blast.
