The number of those who lost their life to the unfortunate explosion at the Bodija axis of Ibadan, Oyo state capital, on Tuesday, has now increased to five.
This was made known by the special adviser on security matters to Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo, Fatai Owoseni on Thursday when he featured on ARISE TV.
The explosion, which according to Makinde, was caused by illegal miners who stored explosive devices in an apartment in the area, left many sustaining varying degree of injuries and several houses destroyed.
The governor had on Wednesday said two persons died and 77 injured in the late night explosion.
Temitope Alonge, head of the emergency operations centre (EOP) for the rescue and evacuation of the victims, also put the death toll at five when he spoke with journalists at the scene of the incident on Thursday.
He said, “The storm is yet to settle, but it’s time to pick up what is left of the disaster site of Tuesday’s deadly explosion in Bodija in the ancient city of Ibadan which has left five victims dead and about 77 sustaining varying degrees of injuries.
“Earth moving equipment had been deployed to the scene to clear the debris and perhaps rescue more victims.The Operations Emergency team are also on ground to ensure the smooth flow of evacuation.
“Residents who are fortunate to pick what is left of their property, have headed for safer locations as the state government had ordered an evacuation due to safety concerns.”
