The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, has promised to issue a firm statement on those found responsible for the multiple explosions that killed five people, damaged 58 houses, and seriously injured 77 residents of the Adeyi area in Old Bodija last Tuesday.
It stated that it is awaiting the results of the forensic investigation that was mandated to determine the true cause of the devastating event.
Segun Tomori, the minister’s special assistant on media, issued a statement on Sunday in Abuja stating that the government’s determination to await the results of meticulous forensic investigations is a result of its commitment to addressing problems at their source.
As per the assertions made by Seyi Makinde, the governor of Oyo State, initial inquiries have revealed that unlawful miners concealed explosive devices within a residence situated in the Bodija locality of the state capital.
The statement recalled that immediately following the tragic incident, in the presence of the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, President Bola Tinubu called the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, by telephone to express his condolences on behalf of the governor, the victims, and the good people of Oyo State.
The minister subsequently expressed condolences to the bereaved families and other victims. In addition, he praised the Oyo State Government for its effective coordination of the relief effort.
“The Federal Government is currently awaiting the results of forensic investigations that will ascertain the precise cause of the explosion, the type of explosives that detonated it, and the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident that resulted in property and life losses,” the statement continued.
“Ministry Mine Inspectorate officers were also dispatched to the detonation site to assist other security agencies in determining the explosion’s cause,” the ministry added.
Additionally, the Minister provided Nigerians with the reassurance that the Federal Government is dedicated to resolving issues at their source; thus, it has decided to await the results of meticulous forensic investigations into the Ibadan explosion before issuing a final statement.
“Intense circumstances such as this warrant allowing security agencies to carry out their duties, according to the honorable minister, rather than acting on rumors,” “By doing so, it is possible to enhance public awareness, hold responsible those responsible, and establish coordinated measures to prevent a reoccurrence,” the statement concluded.