An explosion on Tuesday evening rocked Bodija, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, sending residents into panic mode. Parts of the popular Ace Mall, Bodija collapsed after the explosion shattered windows at multiple locations, including homes, and buildings in the city.
The incident occurred around 7:30 p.m., as confirmed by thousands of residents who confirmed hearing and feeling the vibrations on social media.
The cause of the explosion or where it originated from is yet to be ascertained. Residents have been advised to avoid the precincts of Total Filling Station in Sango which is beside Ventura Mall.
There are no reports of a tremor in the area, but preliminary investigations suggest that it may be an explosion from a private building at Deji Oyelese Street. At Adeyi Avenue. The surrounding buildings are shattered. Law enforcement agencies are flocking to the area.
The explosion was also heard in Alaro/Poly Ibadan, UI, Moniya, Awotan, Apete, Ojoo, and Jeje areas.
Confirming the incident, Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, stated that “… the state government has taken over and is in full control of the unfortunate occurrence to mitigate the incident.”
Governor Seyi Makinde has also directed all security service chiefs including paramilitary chiefs and Fire Operatives to the location to control potential spillover from the explosion.
Governor Makinde urged citizens to remain calm while reassuring them that matters will be brought to rest.
