Following reports that Tuesday’s explosion in Ibadan, capital of Oyo State was caused by explosives allegedly stored by illegal miners, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake has promised to make it difficult for people to acquire and store explosives Illegally going forward.
Alake in a statement he personally signed on Wednesday, expressed sadness over the devastating occurrence. He Commiserated with the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde and the people of the state. He also revealed that Field Officers of the ministry have been sent to the scene of the explosion to join others in the efforts to bring the situation completely under control.
The full statement reads:
“I am saddened by the news of explosion that occurred yesterday night in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The tragic incident had devastating effects on lives and property.
I 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 families 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 victims to recover 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 cause 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.
I commend Governor Seyi Makinde for the rapid mobilisation of emergency response efforts, including the deployment of fire service, police and other security agencies.
I urge members of the public to always be safety conscious and report persons or organisations endangering public health and security.
Dr. Oladele Alake
Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals
January 17, 2024
