Oyo State Assembly Discloses Name of Individual Responsible for Ibadan Explosion

The Oyo State House of Assembly revealed the identity of the individual believed to be behind the recent explosion that shook Ibadan. The alleged perpetrator has been identified as Sawani Yusuf, whose nationality remains unconfirmed.

The Majority Leader, Sanjo Adedoyin, disclosed that the explosion occurred at a property in the Dejo Oyelese area of Bodija owned by the foreigner. The Assembly urged security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend all individuals connected to the incident.

The revelation unfolded during discussions prompted by a motion titled “URGENT NEED FOR ALL REGULATORY AGENCIES TO ENFORCE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ESPECIALLY IN HANDLING AND STORING OF EXPLOSIVES (DYNAMITES) IN VIEW OF THE EXPLOSION THAT ROCKED OLD BODIJA AREA OF IBADAN ON TUESDAY, 16TH JANUARY, 2024,” presented by Adebayo Babajide, representing Ibadan North II.

Lawmakers expressed concerns about the storage of explosive devices in a residential area and called for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the disaster. They questioned the authorization for keeping such devices in a house and sought information on how and where the dynamites were stored, leading to the tragic event.

Lamenting the explosion, lawmakers highlighted the significance of the Ojoo Gem Stone market as the largest in Africa, with numerous expatriates residing in the vicinity. The Assembly called on the government and security agencies to expand the scope of the investigation to ensure a thorough examination of the aftermath.

Commending Governor Seyi Makinde for his swift response, including covering hospital bills and providing alternative accommodation for displaced residents, the House expressed gratitude to various security agencies and emergency response organizations.

The Assembly specifically commended the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Oyo State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for their rapid deployment of manpower to the scene. Additionally, the House appealed to the Federal Government and its emergency response agencies to assist the victims of the blast.

Further directives from the Assembly include calling on security agencies to cordon off the incident scene for a thorough search and urging intelligence gathering to identify residences of other potential illegal miners and expatriates. Regulatory agencies were also implored to enforce safety precautions related to explosives.

In his closing remarks, Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin emphasized the need to await the outcome of security investigations before determining further actions. He directed the House Committee on Environment and Natural Resources to scrutinize state Environmental Laws within a week and report back with findings to guide legislative actions.