Ibadan Explosion Devasting, Tragic – Alake

Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Oladele Alake has expressed shock over the explosion that occurred in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

A statement signed by Dr. Alake in Abuja describes the incident as tragic and devastating which has 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”.

According to the statement, Dr. Alake extends his sympathy to the wounded and other victims who suffered one loss or the other especially residents whose houses were destroyed.

“I pray the Almighty God to comfort the family of the deceased and grant succour to those who lost valuables as they begin to rebuild”.

The statement says the Minister has deployed some mining officers from the Ministry to ascertain the cause of the explosion.

“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 causes of the explosion. We have ordered detailed investigation and our officers will work and collaborate with Oyo State Government to know the actual cause” Dr. Alake emphasizes.

“If the explosion was caused mining explosives devices as earlier reported, the ministry will double its effort to tighten the noose around those acquiring explosives and storing them illegally”.

The statement therefore commends Governor Seyi Makinde for the rapid mobilisation of emergency response, including the deployment of fire service, police and security agencies.

It urges members to always be safety conscious and report persons or organisations endangering public health and security.

PR/Georgina Humphrey