By ABAH ADAH
The Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) has ordered investigation into the explosion that rocked Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital on Tuesday, leaving three people dead and injuring more 70 persons even as rescue operations are still on.
Minister of Solid Minerals Dr Dele Alake who gave the directive expressed sadness over the unfortunate incident, and while offering his condolences on behalf of the ministry and, by extension, the federal government to the affected families, government and people of Oyo State for the loss of lives, he sympathised with other victims who suffered one loss or the other especially residents whose house were destroyed.
Though the actual cause of the blast has not yet been confirmed, it has been linked to the activities of illegal miners in the area who were alleged to keep explosives for use in the operations.
In a statement he personally signed, the Minister said, I am saddened with the news of explosion that occurred yesterday night in Ibadan, Oyo State.
“The tragic incident had devastating effects on lives and property.
“offer my condolences over lost lives on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals to Governor Seyi Makinde and the good people of Oyo State.
“I also extend my sympathy to the wounded and other victims who suffered one loss or the other especially residents whose house were destroyed. I pray the Almighty God to comfort the family of the deceased and grant succour to those who lost valuables as they begin to rebuild.
“Oyo State Government and Emergency Response Agencies of both the state and federal governments have promised to help as much as possible.
“In the interim, I have directed the ministry’s mine officers who are already on site in Ibadan to join ongoing investigations to find out the immediate and remote causes of the explosion. We have ordered detailed investigation and our officers will work and collaborate with Oyo State Government to know the actual cause.
“If the explosion was caused by mining explosives devices as earlier reported, the ministry will double its effort to tighten the noose around those acquiring explosives and storing them illegally.”
While commending Governor Seyi Makinde for the rapid mobilisation of emergency response, including the deployment of fire service, police and security agencies, he urged members to always be safety conscious and report persons or organisations endangering public health and security.
